Israel Expands Ground Operation in Northern Gaza, Civilians Barred from Returning

The Israeli military has announced an expansion of its ground operation in northern Gaza, targeting the town of Beit Lahiya, which has been a focal point of intense bombing since the early days of the conflict. The operation is part of a broader effort to combat Hamas militants, who Israel claims have regrouped in the area.

The town, located in the northwestern corner of Gaza, was among the first targets of the ground invasion launched over a year ago following Hamas’ attack into southern Israel. Israeli forces have encircled the northern third of the Gaza Strip since then. Recent operations have also included a major offensive in the nearby Jabaliya refugee camp, resulting in significant restrictions on aid entering northern Gaza and a full evacuation order. Tens of thousands of residents have fled to Gaza City in the latest mass displacement.

Palestinian medical sources reported that around 20 people were killed in northern Gaza on Thursday alone, including five people killed and five others wounded in a raid on a house in Beit Lahiya. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) stated that they are facilitating the safe evacuation of Palestinians from combat zones through organized routes, but there are no plans to allow civilians to return to the northern Gaza Strip indefinitely.

The conflict, which began after a Hamas attack on October 7, 2023, has resulted in significant casualties, with over 43,000 Palestinians killed, according to Palestinian health officials. The war has also seen involvement from Hezbollah in Lebanon, with both groups considered proxy forces backed by Iran. The situation has been further complicated by internal political tensions in Israel, including the recent dismissal of Defense Minister Yoav Gallant by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, which has sparked widespread protests and chaos across Israel.

Gallant’s removal has been attributed to several factors, including his support for extending military service to religious students, his call for an inquiry into security lapses during the Hamas attack, and his advocacy for a ceasefire to secure the return of hostages. His dismissal has been seen as a significant move that could prolong the conflict, as he was a major advocate for a ceasefire within the Israeli government.

The international community, including the United States, has been involved in efforts to address the crisis. Donald Trump, in his campaign, has vowed to end the war in Gaza and secure the release of hostages held by Hamas, though experts remain skeptical about the feasibility of these promises given the complex nature of the conflict.