Israel Launches Ground Assault in Gaza, Secures Strategic Corridor
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) announced on Thursday the start of a targeted ground operation in central and southern Gaza, reclaiming control over a crucial land passage. This action follows intense aerial bombardments that, in just one day, reportedly claimed over 400 lives, effectively ending a two-month ceasefire with Hamas.
In a social media update, the IDF stated that its forces had initiated precise ground activities in key areas of Gaza to widen the security zone and establish a partial buffer between the north and south of the territory. Troops from the 252nd Division advanced into the Netzarim Corridor—a vital route splitting Gaza into two sectors—and managed to secure approximately half of the passage, reaching as far as the Salah a-Din road.
At the same time, the elite Golani Brigade was deployed along the southern border of Gaza, signaling potential further operations inside the area. “The IDF will continue to target terrorist organizations in Gaza to safeguard Israeli citizens,” a military spokesperson said.
Amid accusations, Israel has criticized Hamas for its repeated refusal to release hostages and for dismissing mediator proposals. Conversely, Hamas has accused Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of breaking the ceasefire and jeopardizing hostages through what it describes as “reckless and unilateral” measures.
Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz issued a stern ultimatum to Gaza’s residents: “This is the last warning. Heed the advice of the President of the United States—return the hostages and remove Hamas, and new options will become available, including potential relocation for those who wish to leave.”
The renewed military offensive, coupled with an increased troop presence in southern Gaza, raises the risk of the conflict escalating into a full-blown war. The previous ceasefire had provided a brief respite for the war-weary Palestinian population, facilitated humanitarian aid, and led to the release of dozens of hostages who had been detained for more than 15 months.
Defending the renewed operations, Prime Minister Netanyahu maintained that the conflict will persist until Hamas’s governance and military capabilities are completely dismantled.