Netanyahu Defends Expanded Military Offensive in Gaza Amid Domestic and International Criticism

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has announced a broader military offensive in Gaza, aiming to dismantle Hamas strongholds. This decision comes amid rising criticism and concerns from both domestic and international communities regarding the ongoing conflict.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has defended a new military operation in Gaza, which is more extensive than previously announced. Despite growing criticism both domestically and internationally, Netanyahu stated that Israel "has no choice but to finish the job and complete the defeat of Hamas." The security Cabinet has instructed the dismantling of Hamas strongholds not only in Gaza City but also in "central camps" and Muwasi.

Military Offensive in Gaza

A source familiar with the operation confirmed plans for these areas, although they were not included in Israel's earlier announcement. The UN reports that these crowded camps shelter over half a million displaced people. Netanyahu faced criticism within his coalition for targeting only Gaza City. He mentioned "safe zones," though such areas have been bombed before.

Netanyahu discussed the plan with US President Donald Trump, expressing gratitude for Trump's "steadfast support." Rejecting claims of starvation in Gaza and a "global campaign of lies," Netanyahu addressed foreign media before a UN Security Council meeting. He stated, "Our goal is not to occupy Gaza, our goal is to free Gaza."

Humanitarian Concerns and International Reactions

Netanyahu outlined goals including demilitarising Gaza, maintaining Israeli military control, and establishing a non-Israeli civilian administration. He aims to increase aid distribution sites but insisted there is no hunger policy. He directed the military to allow more foreign journalists into Gaza, blaming Hamas for civilian deaths and aid shortages.

The US defended Israel's right to security decisions, dismissing genocide allegations in Gaza as false. Other UN Security Council members expressed alarm. China criticised the "collective punishment" of Gazans, while Russia warned against escalating hostilities. Ramesh Rajasingham from the UN humanitarian office described conditions as beyond horrific.

Casualties Amid Aid Distribution

At least 31 Palestinians were killed while seeking aid in Gaza, according to hospitals and witnesses. Witnesses reported gunfire in Israeli-controlled corridors and areas like Morag and Netzarim. Nasser hospital reported 15 deaths near the Morag corridor. Jamal al-Laweh described the situation as a "death trap," yet felt compelled to seek food for children.

In northern Gaza near Zikim crossing, six people died waiting for aid, according to Gaza's Health Ministry and Shifa hospital. In central Gaza, witnesses heard warning shots before fire was directed at crowds near an aid site run by the Israeli-backed Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF). Awda hospital reported four deaths from Israeli gunfire.

Impact on Children and Hostage Situation

Israel's offensive has displaced most Palestinians and worsened famine conditions. Two Palestinian children died from malnutrition-related causes on Saturday, raising the child death toll to 100 since the war began. At least 117 adults have died from similar causes since June. The ministry reports around half of the dead are women and children.

Relatives of hostages have called for a labour strike in Israel over plans to expand military operations, fearing it endangers their loved ones. Fifty hostages remain from the October 7, 2023 attack led by Hamas; twenty are believed alive. Protesters gathered outside the US consulate in Jerusalem against Israel's offensive.

Germany has halted military equipment exports to Israel amid international criticism. Chancellor Friedrich Merz stated Germany and Israel are discussing policies critically but maintain overall friendship. The GHF denied incidents at their sites on Sunday, while Israel's military reported no troop involvement near central Gaza aid sites.

The situation remains tense as international pressure mounts on Israel regarding its actions in Gaza. The humanitarian crisis continues to escalate with significant casualties among civilians seeking aid amidst ongoing conflict.

With inputs from PTI