Israel launches ground offensive in Gaza City
Israel launches ground offensive The Israeli military has officially begun a ground offensive in Gaza City, marking one of the most significant escalations in the nearly two-year war. The operation, according to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s government, is aimed at dismantling Hamas’ command structure and reclaiming control of the city.
The Gaza Health Ministry reported that nearly 65,000 Palestinians have been killed since the conflict erupted after Hamas’ Oct. 7 attack, with 59 additional deaths recorded Monday. Aid agencies warn that the humanitarian crisis is worsening by the day.
What U.S. officials are saying
Secretary of State Marco Rubio met with Netanyahu just hours before the operation began. Rubio expressed U.S. support but stressed that Israel has only a “short window” to secure a hostage deal and avoid long-term entanglement.
Former President Donald Trump also weighed in, warning Hamas not to harm the 20 remaining Israeli hostages. He called it a “human atrocity” and urged for their immediate release.
The situation on the ground
- The IDF confirmed two armored and infantry divisions are now operating inside Gaza City.
- Defense Minister Israel Katz said seizing Gaza City is critical to ensuring Hamas’ defeat.
- Over 300,000 Palestinians have already fled south after Israel’s evacuation calls.
Why it matters
Security experts caution that the offensive could result in heavy Israeli casualties, risk the lives of hostages, and leave Israel responsible for governing Gaza’s two million residents. At the same time, global pressure is mounting on Washington to push for a ceasefire and humanitarian relief.
The bottom line
“Israel launches ground offensive” is more than a battlefield update. For the United States, it’s a defining test of how far its support for Israel can stretch while balancing humanitarian concerns and global stability.