Background on Key Players and Context
The Israeli military has announced its intention to concentrate operations in Gaza City, located in northern Gaza Strip, with the aim of delivering a decisive blow against the Palestinian Islamist group, Hamas. This development comes amid an ongoing 22-month conflict between Israel and Gaza.
Who is Hamas?
Hamas is a Palestinian Sunni Islamic political organization and militant group. Founded in 1987, Hamas seeks to establish an Islamic state in Palestine and opposes the existence of Israel. It won the 2006 Palestinian legislative elections, taking control of Gaza and maintaining a significant presence in the West Bank.
Why is Gaza City Relevant?
Gaza City, the largest urban center in the Gaza Strip, is considered one of Hamas’s last strongholds. The Israeli military views controlling Gaza City and nearby refugee camps as crucial to defeating Hamas and securing the release of hostages taken during the October 7, 2023 attack, which sparked the current conflict.
Israeli Military’s New Plan
On Sunday, the Israeli military’s Chief of Staff, Lieutenant General Eyal Zamir, announced that the army had approved a plan for the next phase of operations, focusing on Gaza City.
“Today we approved the plan for the next phase of the war,” Zamir stated during a field visit to the Gaza Strip, according to an army statement. “We will maintain the momentum of the large-scale operation launched in mid-May in the Palestinian enclave, focusing on Gaza City,” he added, referring to the city as one of Hamas’s last remaining strongholds.
The military intends to continue its offensive until October 7, with the objective of not only evacuating Gaza City’s population but also completing the city’s encirclement and gaining operational control over it.
Hamas’ Response
Hamas responded to the Israeli military’s plans by calling them “a grave war crime reflecting the occupier’s disregard for international and humanitarian laws,” with “U.S. political and military support” enabling Israel’s actions.
Key Questions and Answers
- What is the Israeli military’s new plan? The plan focuses on intensifying operations in Gaza City with the aim of defeating Hamas and securing the release of hostages.
- Who is Hamas, and why is Gaza City significant? Hamas is a Palestinian Islamist group that has controlled Gaza since 2007. Gaza City is considered one of Hamas’s last strongholds, making it a key target for the Israeli military.
- What is Hamas’s reaction to the Israeli military’s plans? Hamas has condemned the plans as war crimes, citing U.S. support for Israel’s actions.
