Israel has entered the “second stage” of its war in Gaza, according to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Ground troops have entered Gaza and a communications blackout has cut Palestinian residents off from the rest of the world. Netanyahu stated that the main goal is to defeat the enemy and ensure the existence of Israel. The Israeli Defense Forces have been conducting heavy munition strikes on Hamas’s tunnel network. The attacks have resulted in a high number of casualties in Gaza and a worsening humanitarian crisis. The ground campaign is expected to be prolonged and could potentially escalate into a wider conflict. Several governments have called for an immediate ceasefire and humanitarian corridor for aid and evacuations. Israel has tightened control of areas outside of Gaza, and families of hostages taken by Hamas have gathered to demand information from the government. Netanyahu eventually met with the families to discuss the situation.
Israel declares Gaza ground operation as ‘next phase’ in ongoing conflict
