Israeli Warplanes Carry Out Extensive Airstrikes on Gaza, Fueling Fears of Ground Invasion
Israeli warplanes have launched a series of airstrikes on Gaza with unprecedented intensity, cutting off communication and sparking concerns of a potential ground invasion. Reports suggest that the aerial assault was more ferocious and louder than previous days, suggesting an escalation in the conflict. As electricity and communications blackout parts of the besieged enclave, there are growing fears that a full-scale Israeli ground invasion may be imminent.
According to reports, Israeli warplanes targeted the extensive Hamas tunnel network under Gaza by using powerful ‘bunker buster’ concussion missiles. The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) have confirmed the airstrikes, stating that the air force is targeting underground targets and terrorist infrastructure. IDF spokesperson Daniel Hagari emphasized that the ground forces are also expanding their activity in Gaza.
The Hamas government has accused Israel of deliberately cutting communication and internet services in order to carry out retaliatory strikes with devastating consequences. The Palestinian telecoms provider, Jawwal, announced a total cut in communication services and internet across the territory. This blackout has a significant impact on emergency services and humanitarian organizations operating in Gaza. The Palestinian Red Crescent, the main emergency service in Gaza, expressed deep concern over their ability to provide medical services due to the communication disruption.
Several international non-governmental organizations (NGOs) working in Gaza, including ActionAid and Oxfam, have voiced grave concern over the blackout and loss of communication in the region. They are calling for a ceasefire to protect innocent lives and to restore communication channels for practical necessity in delivering aid and emergency services.
While there are speculations of a possible full-scale invasion, experts believe that the recent aerial assault may be a preparatory ‘softening up’ operation to gather intelligence on Hamas defenses. Witnesses reported artillery and tank fire, in addition to the airstrikes, indicating an increased intensity in the Israeli offensive. The IDF spokesperson claimed that the Al Shifa hospital in Gaza City is being used as a Hamas command and control facility, a statement refuted by Hamas.
The United Nations Secretary-General, Antonio Guterres, urgently appealed for aid deliveries into Gaza, warning of a humanitarian crisis. The Palestinian death toll has exceeded 7,300, and over 110 Palestinians have been killed in violence and Israeli raids in the occupied West Bank. Likewise, more than 1,400 people in Israel, primarily civilians, have been killed during the initial Hamas attack.
The situation remains tense as fears of a ground invasion persist. The international community continues to monitor the situation closely, calling for an immediate ceasefire and the restoration of communication channels to ensure the safety and well-being of civilians in Gaza.
