Israel launched an expanded ground offensive in Gaza, aiming to seize significant parts of the territory and compel Hamas's surrender after a prolonged conflict. Prime Minister Netanyahu suggested potential full control of Gaza, though the feasibility and intent remain unclear amid ongoing cease-fire negotiations and pressure from the Trump administration.
Western allies, including Britain, France, and Canada, publicly criticized Israel's actions, highlighting growing tensions and leading to a sharp Israeli response. This suggests a potential strain on Israel's relationship with traditional allies.
The military maneuvers may also serve as a negotiating tactic to pressure Hamas into concessions, adding a layer of complexity to the situation's interpretation.
The offensive has coincided with a severe humanitarian crisis in Gaza, exacerbated by a prolonged blockade causing widespread suffering and risk of famine among the Palestinian population.
Israel declared this week that it was expanding its ground offensive in Gaza, vowing to seize large areas of the enclave in an effort to force the surrender of Hamas after more than 19 months of war.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of Israel said Monday that Israeli troops could effectively take control of all of Gaza as part of the offensive. It was unclear what exactly that would mean or whether his government would follow through on the threat, which came during a new and intense round of cease-fire negotiations and as the Trump administration presses both sides to agree to a truce.
Britain, France, and Canada issued a rare public reprimand of Israel, demanding that it cease its widening military offensive in Gaza. That laid bare growing rifts between Israel and its traditional Western allies and prompted a furious Israeli response on Tuesday.
The announcements of new military maneuvers could also be a negotiating ploy to pressure Hamas to make compromises.
The past few days have been particularly deadly for Palestinians in Gaza, which has been devastated by the war and a total blockade on aid for more than two months, which has put the population at risk of famine.
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