Priyanka Gandhi Slams Israeli Assaults on Hamas
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Synopsis
Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra has condemned Israel's military strikes on Hamas targets in Gaza, describing them as acts of cold-blooded murder. The renewed offensive has reportedly resulted in significant casualties, including many civilians.
Key Takeaways
- Priyanka Gandhi condemns Israeli military actions.
- Over 350 casualties reported in Gaza strikes.
- Criticism of Western nations' responses.
- Israel claims military actions are in response to Hamas.
- Ceasefire negotiations have collapsed.
New Delhi, March 19 (NationPress) Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra strongly denounced Israel's recent military operations targeting Hamas in Gaza, labeling them an act of "cold-blooded murder."
Israel executed extensive airstrikes on various sites within the Gaza Strip on Tuesday, marking its first prominent offensive since the ceasefire commenced on January 19. This renewed aggression followed the breakdown of talks between Israel and Hamas.
Medical officials in Gaza reported that over 350 individuals lost their lives, and more than 150 were injured due to strikes in northern Gaza, Deir al-Balah, Khan Younis, Rafah, and Gaza City.
Expressing her indignation on X, Priyanka stated, "The cold-blooded murder of over 400 innocent civilians, including 130 children, by the Israeli government illustrates that humanity holds no value for them. Their actions reveal a deep-seated weakness and an inability to confront their own reality."
She further criticized Western countries, saying, "Whether Western powers choose to recognize this or acknowledge their collusion in the genocide of the Palestinian people, all conscientious citizens of the world (including many Israelis) can see it."
"The more criminally the Israeli government behaves, the more they expose their cowardice. Conversely, the courage of the Palestinian people shines through. They have faced unimaginable hardships, yet their spirit remains unbroken and steadfast," she added.
Israel defended its military actions, claiming the offensive was a response to Hamas's refusal to release hostages and its rejection of ceasefire proposals from US Presidential Envoy Steve Witkoff and other mediators.
On Tuesday, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office stated, "Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defense Minister Israel Katz have directed the IDF to execute decisive action against the Hamas terrorist organization in the Gaza Strip."
The statement also noted that Israel is escalating its military operations to achieve its objectives, which include securing the release of hostages held by Hamas.
"Israel will now confront Hamas with increased military force. The operational strategy was presented by the IDF over the weekend and ratified by the political leadership," it mentioned.
This latest escalation comes as ceasefire negotiations collapsed due to disagreements regarding the next steps of the truce.
Israel aimed to extend the initial phase of the three-stage agreement, while Hamas insisted on advancing to the second phase, which was due to commence on March 2 and involve further hostage exchanges.
During the initial phase of the ceasefire, Hamas released 33 Israeli hostages and five Thai nationals in exchange for approximately 2,000 Palestinian prisoners. However, Hamas continues to hold around 59 hostages.
