Jerusalem: In a significant development, the Israeli army has announced the completion of its ground offensive in the southern city of Khan Yunis, Gaza, marking a pivotal moment in the ongoing conflict with Hamas militants. The troops have been withdrawn and are currently regrouping, signaling a preparation for potential operations in Rafah, identified as Hamas’s final bastion of control.
Lieutenant General Herzi Halevi, the Army Chief, has affirmed the continuation of the war in Gaza, emphasizing that the military campaign is far from over. Concurrently, reports from Channel 13 TV indicate that Israel is gearing up for an extensive evacuation process in Rafah, which could span several months. Despite the withdrawal from Khan Yunis, a considerable force remains deployed in Gaza to carry out targeted missions, including in areas previously dominated by Hamas.
Visuals from the Associated Press reveal that some residents have begun returning to Khan Yunis, amidst discussions of a ground assault near Rafah, home to approximately 1.4 million people. This proposed action has met with resistance from the United States, Israel’s principal ally. John Kirby, the White House National Security spokesman, has reiterated America’s stance against the Rafah operation on ABC News, suggesting that the troop withdrawal serves to provide respite to the soldiers stationed in the region for an extended period.
The international community has also voiced concerns regarding the humanitarian impact of the conflict. British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has called for an immediate cessation of hostilities, particularly to alleviate the suffering of innocent children caught in the crossfire. After half a year of relentless warfare, the civilian death toll continues to rise, exacerbating the dire conditions of hunger and despair in Gaza.
