Israel Begins ‘Gideon’s Chariots’ Ground Operation in Gaza

IDF Launches Ground Offensive in Gaza

The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) have announced the start of a large-scale ground offensive in Gaza, marking a significant escalation in the ongoing conflict. The operation, named ‘Gideon’s Chariots,’ follows weeks of intensified airstrikes by the Israeli Air Force.

Ground Troops Deployed

According to an IDF statement, troops have already begun extensive ground operations in both northern and southern Gaza. The IDF claims to have targeted over 670 Hamas facilities, resulting in the deaths of ‘dozens of terrorists.’ They also state that their troops are currently dismantling underground infrastructure and securing key positions within Gaza.

Rising Death Toll in Gaza

The escalation has resulted in a mounting death toll in Gaza. The Hamas-run Gaza Ministry of Health reports that over 160 people have been killed since Saturday. Since the collapse of a two-month ceasefire on March 18, the death toll has surged to over 3,131 Palestinians, with more than 8,600 injured.

Conditions on the ground in Gaza are described as rapidly deteriorating by ABC News correspondent Diaa Ostaz, reporting from Khan Younis. Bombardments are intensifying, making access to emergency care increasingly difficult.

International Condemnation

United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has expressed alarm over Israel’s plans to expand ground operations in Gaza. Speaking at the Arab League summit in Baghdad, he called the situation ‘beyond description, beyond atrocious & beyond inhumane,’ and renewed his appeal for an immediate and permanent ceasefire.

Israel’s Stance

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s security cabinet approved the ‘Gideon’s Chariots’ operation on May 5th. At the time, an IDF spokesperson stated the operation would involve ‘a broad attack that includes the displacement of most of the population of the Gaza Strip.’ Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz has also indicated that Israeli forces intend to remain in Gaza after the operation concludes.