Israeli forces have launched a large-scale ground operation into Gaza City, marking the most intense offensive since the war began nearly two years ago. The operation, involving two IDF divisions, aims to dismantle Hamas’ command and control networks and secure the release of hostages. With over 600,000 civilians remaining in the city, many face a grim choice between fleeing into uncertainty or staying and risking annihilation. The IDF has emphasized a ‘security over speed’ approach, advancing with heavy fire support as part of the offensive.
What Happened
Israel has launched a full-scale ground operation into Gaza City, marking a new and dangerous phase of a war that has already left more than 64,000 Palestinians dead since October 2023. Two divisions of the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF), the 162nd and the 98th, advanced deeper into the besieged enclave, with a third division expected to join in the coming days. The operation, officials say, is aimed at dismantling Hamas’ command and control infrastructure in the heart of Gaza City, which houses up to 3,000 militants, and securing the release of hostages still held by the group.
The Moment of Fear
For many in Gaza, the invasion was a moment of paralyzing dread. Mahdy Kamal, a father of five, described the anxiety as he and his family sat in the dark, relying on a battery-powered radio for updates. The news of the ground offensive prompted him to fear for his family’s safety. Huda Abu Ramadan, a mother of four, also expressed intense emotion, as her daughter broke into tears upon hearing the news.
No Safe Haven
While the IDF has urged Gazans to evacuate, many remain in the city due to economic hardship, lack of safe alternatives, and attachment to their homes. A professor from Al Azhar University notes that the cost of relocation could be up to $1,000 per family, a sum many cannot afford in the current economic climate. Despite the dangers, many chose to stay, fearing the conditions in the designated evacuation zones.
No End in Sight
The war shows no signs of winding down, with Israel vowing to eliminate all remaining Hamas and Palestinian Islamic Jihad militants in Gaza City. The situation remains complex, with multiple political scenarios emerging, including the possibility of a technocratic government or the resettlement of the entire Gaza Strip. While no clear resolution is in sight, families like Kamal’s and Abu Ramadan’s continue to navigate the immediate challenges of survival, with the grim possibility that their city may be erased in the name of victory.