In a dramatic escalation on Tuesday, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) launched a long-threatened ground assault on Gaza City, displacing 48,000 Palestinians in just two days. Ground troops are moving deeper into the enclave with plans to confront up to 3,000 Hamas combatants still believed to be inside.
"Gaza is burning," Defense Minister Israel Katz declared on X. "The IDF strikes with an iron fist at the terrorist infrastructure and IDF soldiers are fighting bravely to create the conditions for the release of the hostages and the defeat of Hamas."
The operation comes despite significant warnings. European leaders have threatened sanctions, and senior Israeli military commanders—including Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir—have cautioned that the assault could endanger the remaining hostages or become a "death trap" for troops. Zamir has urged Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to pursue a ceasefire deal.
The mass exodus underscores the crisis’s human toll, as families on the move confront uncertainty and seek safety amid intense bombardment.
As this ground offensive unfolds, global citizens are watching closely to see how Israel balances its military objectives with international pressure—and what it means for displaced Palestinians seeking a path to peace.
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Israel says 'Gaza is burning' as 48,000 Palestinians flee in two days
cgtn.com
