Yesterday, on August 20, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) announced the start of a large-scale invasion operation in the city of Gaza, reported “The Jerusalem Post.” This decision was made following the escalation of the situation in the Gaza Strip and after videos were spread in the media.
According to the official representative of the Israel Defense Forces, Brigadier General Effi Deferin, the army forces already control the peripheral areas of Gaza City. In addition, he stated that this week, about 60 thousand military service summonses are being sent to Israelis, and by the end of this month, another 20 thousand letters will be issued.
Deferin said that the Israel Defense Forces are paying special attention to ensuring the safe evacuation of Gaza’s civilian population, as well as the possibility of receiving humanitarian and medical assistance. The operation was named “Gideon Wagons 2.” For reference, earlier reports stated that after a video about Hamas hostages was spread, Israel was discussing the issue of a full takeover of the Gaza Strip and considering operation plans. In the video, one of the male hostages says he has no food, cannot stand, and is fighting for his life.
Although Israel accuses Hamas of holding hostages, the group rejected these claims, stating that hostages receive the same food as soldiers, as well as Gazans suffering from hunger.
According to BBC, the government led by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is considering plans for the full occupation of the Gaza Strip and the military release of hostages. The government has not officially announced the start date of the operation, but local media emphasize that an immediate army advance into the city is not expected, first, the civilian population must be evacuated.
At the same time, Netanyahu stated that Israel has no other choice, and the goal is to completely destroy Hamas, so military actions in the Gaza Strip must be expanded. This decision could further complicate the situation in the region and bring the conflict to a new stage attracting the attention of the international community.
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