Israel-Gaza Conflict Escalates: New Offensive and Mounting Challenges
The conflict between Israel and Hamas is entering a new phase with an anticipated offensive targeting Gaza City. Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) Chief Herzi Halevi announced the army had “liquidated dozens of terrorists” in the preparatory phase of the operation, including battalion commanders and other mid-level leaders.
Meanwhile, the Ministry of Health in Hamas-led Gaza reported thirteen deaths in the past 24 hours, including three children, bringing the total number of deaths due to starvation or chronic malnutrition to 361 since the start of the war, according to Gaza authorities.
This report contradicts earlier statements by Israeli Prime Minister benjamin Netanyahu, who claimed at the end of July that there was no starvation in Gaza. The IDF initially dismissed claims of starvation as Hamas propaganda. However, following warnings from over a hundred aid organizations detailing increasing mass hunger, the IDF announced daily humanitarian ”tactical breaks” in areas without active land operations and the creation of designated humanitarian corridors for aid delivery. Former U.S. president Donald Trump also acknowledged that ”hunger is real” in the Gaza Strip.
Domestic Discontent rises
The delay in securing the release of hostages, previously considered a top priority, has sparked widespread outrage within Israel.In mid-August,hundreds of thousands of Israelis took to the streets in protest,and as the offensive develops,demonstrations have become increasingly radical,with cars reportedly set ablaze in Jerusalem on Tuesday.
Despite ongoing street protests and demands for a focus on hostage return, the Netanyahu government appears to prioritize “winning the war.” this has led to growing “apathy” among reservists. While sixty thousand reservists were called up, many are motivated by personal or material reasons.On Tuesday,hundreds of veterans refused service,citing “reserve conscience.”
In an open letter, thes veterans stated, “We are not willing to take part in Netanyahu’s illegal war, we consider the denial of service to our patriotic duty and demand the accountability of our leaders.” The prolonged conflict is also straining IDF resources, with reports of shortages, including a lack of D-9 armored bulldozers, crucial for urban warfare.
To address the pressure on reserves, exacerbated by the continued exemption of ultra-orthodox young peopel from military service, Prime Minister Netanyahu promised a short offensive.
Economic Strain
The length of the offensive is becoming a meaningful economic concern. Israeli public media calculations estimate that delaying the war and launching an offensive on Gaza City will cost $7.4 billion (approximately 2,500 billion forints), necessitating further economic restrictions.
