Gaza: Massive Strikes, Conflict Escalation

Israeli Defense Minister Benny Gantz announced today that "Gaza is burning", following massive air strikes on Gaza City overnight.

The announcement, distributed by Associated Press and BTA, cast a shadow of alarm and uncertainty over an already tense situation. Eyewitnesses describe the scenes as chaotic and terrifying. The sound of explosions echoed through the night, as if trying to swallow the cries of terrified people.

Declaration and new offensive

Gantz"s declaration coincided with reports of a planned new Israeli offensive against Gaza. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, in a statement to reporters during his trip from Israel to Qatar, confirmed the start of the offensive. "The Israelis have started operations there. That"s why we believe we have a very short window of time in which an agreement can be reached", said Rubio, emphasizing the gravity of the situation. "We don"t have months anymore, we probably have days and maybe a few weeks."

According to Palestinian sources, the heavy strikes have affected the entire city, with at least three houses collapsed in the southwest. Medical teams are fighting for the survivors among the rubble, trying to cope with the consequences of the large-scale attack. When questioned by AP, the Israeli army refused to comment for hours, leaving many questions unanswered.

Escalation and concerns

With this development, the situation appears to be escalating, fueling concerns for the thousands of civilians in Gaza. Both Prime Minister Netanyahu and Rubio categorically stated yesterday that the only way to resolve the conflict is through the destruction of Hamas and the release of the 48 hostages, about 20 of whom are believed to be alive. They rejected any calls for a temporary ceasefire, insisting on an immediate end to the conflict through radical measures. This decision, however, raises concerns about a potential large-scale humanitarian disaster and a possibly even more severe escalation of tensions in the region.

Hamas" response

Hamas categorically responded that they will release the hostages only in exchange for the release of Palestinian prisoners, the achievement of a lasting ceasefire, and the withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza. This statement, with its tough conditions, makes expectations for a quick resolution of the conflict even less realistic. The situation seems to be mired in a bloody abyss, fraught with the potential for severe consequences for regional and international stability. The international community faces a serious dilemma _ how to prevent a potentially tragic development without sacrificing the principles of international law.