Is Israeli Army Chief Set to Launch a Major Assault on Gaza City Soon?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
As tensions escalate, Israeli military Chief Eyal Zamir is poised to initiate a substantial offensive in Gaza City, raising alarms about humanitarian impacts. With a moral obligation to recover hostages and ongoing strikes against Hamas, the situation remains critical. What does this mean for the residents of Gaza City? Read on for full insights.
Key Takeaways
- Israeli military Chief Eyal Zamir announces an upcoming offensive in Gaza City.
- Intensified strikes against Hamas are planned for a decisive victory.
- Humanitarian conditions continue to worsen amid ongoing conflict.
- Relocation plans for residents have drawn condemnation from Hamas.
- Diplomatic efforts for a ceasefire have stalled.
Jerusalem, Aug 18 (NationPress) Israeli military Chief Eyal Zamir has announced that the army will commence a new offensive in Gaza City, the largest urban area in the Gaza Strip, despite global warnings regarding the implications for the already ravaged enclave.
Zamir shared these insights during a recent field visit in the strip, where he engaged with senior commanders and detailed plans for the next phase of combat, according to military sources on Sunday.
He stated, “We will soon advance to the next phase of Operation Gideon’s Chariots,” referring to Israel’s renewed offensive in March following the conclusion of a ceasefire that included a phased hostage release, as reported by Xinhua news agency.
During the upcoming phase, Zamir emphasized that the army will intensify its strikes against Hamas in Gaza City until achieving a definitive victory, utilizing all available capabilities on land, air, and sea.
Moreover, he mentioned a “moral obligation” to recover hostages held in Gaza, whether they are alive or deceased.
This announcement follows Israel’s recent decision to relocate residents from Gaza City.
COGAT, the Israeli Defense Ministry body managing humanitarian operations in the area, indicated that the distribution of tents to civilians would start on Sunday as part of the preparations to move the population away from combat zones to southern Gaza.
Hamas has denounced this plan, labeling it a “new wave of genocide and displacement” affecting hundreds of thousands in Gaza City.
As reported by Gaza’s health authorities, at least 61,944 Palestinians have lost their lives, and 155,886 have been injured due to Israeli strikes and gunfire since October 7, 2023, when Hamas-led forces launched a fatal attack on Israel.
Health authorities in Gaza also reported a growing famine, with hospitals recording seven fatalities in the last 24 hours, including two children, due to hunger and malnutrition.
This brings the total number of deaths due to starvation to 258, with 110 of them being children.
Israel’s intention to escalate its offensive in Gaza City coincides with a standstill in diplomatic efforts to achieve a ceasefire and negotiate a hostage release, as recent talks collapsed in July.
Point of View
I emphasize the importance of an unbiased perspective while covering events that shape regional dynamics. The ongoing conflict in Gaza City presents a complex situation requiring careful consideration of humanitarian impacts and geopolitical consequences. Our commitment remains to provide accurate and responsible reporting.
NationPress
19/08/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the key objectives of the Israeli military's new offensive?
The Israeli military aims to achieve a decisive victory over Hamas in Gaza City, utilizing all capabilities on land, air, and sea.
How has the humanitarian situation in Gaza City evolved?
The humanitarian situation in Gaza City is dire, with reports of increasing starvation and casualties due to ongoing strikes since October 7, 2023.
What has Hamas stated regarding the relocation of residents?
Hamas has condemned the Israeli plan to relocate residents from Gaza City, labeling it as a new wave of genocide and displacement.
What is Operation Gideon’s Chariots?
Operation Gideon’s Chariots refers to Israel’s military campaign aimed at combating Hamas and securing the release of hostages.
What are the implications of the stalled diplomatic negotiations?
The stalled negotiations for a ceasefire and hostage release leave the situation in Gaza City fraught with uncertainty and escalating violence.
