Israel’s Defense Minister Israel Katz declared on Tuesday that “Gaza is burning” after a night of heavy airstrikes hit Gaza City. His remarks come amid growing speculation that Israel has launched a fresh offensive on the city.
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, speaking to reporters while leaving Israel for Qatar, hinted that the operation was already underway. “The Israelis have begun operations there,” he said. “We believe there’s only a very short window for a deal now—not months, but just days, maybe weeks at most.” The Israeli military has so far declined to confirm if the new offensive has begun.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Rubio both reiterated on Monday that the conflict will only end with the elimination of Hamas and the release of the remaining hostages. Of the 48 still captive, about 20 are thought to be alive. Calls for a temporary ceasefire have been set aside in favor of a push for a decisive end to the war. Hamas, however, has maintained that hostages will only be freed in exchange for Palestinian prisoners, a permanent ceasefire, and Israel’s withdrawal from Gaza.
According to Gaza’s Health Ministry, at least 64,871 Palestinians have been killed so far. The ministry, run by Hamas but staffed by medical workers, says women and children account for about half of the casualties, though it does not distinguish between civilians and fighters.
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