Middle East Israel Begins First Stages of Assault on Gaza City

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The Israeli military announced it has initiated the "preliminary actions" for a ground assault on Gaza City, aiming to capture and control the region. Troops are actively engaged in the Zeitoun and Jabalia areas, laying the groundwork for a larger offensive approved by Defence Minister Israel Katz. With 60,000 reservists called up, the operation is set to intensify in early September.

 

Hamas accuses Israel of blocking ceasefire negotiations, branding the offensive "a brutal war against innocent civilians." As the conflict escalates, thousands in Gaza City are expected to evacuate toward southern shelters. French President Emmanuel Macron cautioned that Israel's plans could lead to disastrous consequences for the entire region, echoing concerns from the International Committee of the Red Cross about escalating humanitarian crises.

 

Israeli government plans follow the collapse of ceasefire talks with Hamas, who spoke out about ongoing humanitarian impacts. Israel Defence Forces spokesman Brigadier General Effie Defrin stated that actions have commenced, with IDF troops already positioned on the city's outskirts. The intentions are to dismantle Hamas military infrastructure and mitigate civilian harm by warning residents to evacuate.

 

Meanwhile, Gaza's Hamas-run Civil Defence highlights the dire situation amid ongoing Israeli strikes. A recent attack killed 25 people, including a family in the Shati refugee camp. Efforts to protect 50 hostages still held by Hamas continue, with families expressing concerns about their fate during the military offensive, reported the BBC.

 

The Red Cross emphasises the exhaustion and urgent needs of Gaza's population and the hostages. It calls for a ceasefire and unrestricted humanitarian aid access, warning against further hostilities that deepen civilian suffering. Diplomats from Qatar and Egypt are advocating for a ceasefire, proposing a 60-day pause with the partial release of hostages, but Israel demands a full deal.

 

Hamas criticises Prime Minister Netanyahu for opposing mediation efforts and accuses him of impeding any potential agreements. The military offensive follows a deadly attack on southern Israel by Hamas on 7 October 2023, which resulted in significant casualties and hostages. According to the Gaza health ministry, over 62,122 have died since the conflict's escalation.

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from BBC 2025-08-21