The Israeli military intensified its operations around Gaza City on March 6, 2024, as President Donald Trump prepared to convene a White House meeting focused on post-war strategies for the devastated Palestinian territory. The ongoing military campaign in Gaza, which has lasted nearly two years, faces increasing pressure for a resolution amid reports of severe humanitarian crises, including a declared famine by the United Nations.
Israeli forces are currently engaged in efforts to conquer Gaza City, the largest urban area in the region. According to military statements, troops are “operating on the outskirts of Gaza City to locate and dismantle terror infrastructure sites above and below ground.” Residents in the Zeitoun neighbourhood reported heavy bombardment overnight, with accounts of warplanes striking multiple times. One resident, Tala al-Khatib, described the harrowing experience, stating, “Wherever you flee, death follows you.”
The humanitarian situation is dire, with reports indicating over 1,200 fatalities since the outbreak of the war, predominantly among civilians. The ongoing conflict, which began following a Hamas attack in October 2023, has resulted in significant casualties on both sides. According to figures from the Gaza health ministry, at least 62,819 Palestinians have died due to Israel’s retaliatory offensive, a statistic the United Nations considers reliable.
In light of the escalating violence, Defence Minister Israel Katz asserted that Israel would continue its military campaign until Hamas agrees to a ceasefire on terms set by Israel. The Israeli government has authorized the call-up of approximately 60,000 reservists as part of its strategy to seize Gaza City fully.
As international mediators work towards a ceasefire agreement, Hamas has expressed acceptance of a draft proposal that includes a potential hostage release. This proposal involves the staggered release of hostages in exchange for Palestinian prisoners held by Israel. The Qatari foreign ministry confirmed that mediators are waiting for an official response from Israel regarding the ceasefire terms.
Meanwhile, Trump’s special envoy, Steve Witkoff, announced that the upcoming meeting at the White House aims to develop a comprehensive plan for post-war Gaza. Witkoff indicated that the meeting would involve top officials discussing a detailed strategy that addresses the future of the region. Trump’s earlier controversial suggestion of the United States taking control of the Gaza Strip has drawn mixed reactions, with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu expressing support while facing backlash from international communities.
On the ground, the situation remains tense. Residents like Abdel Hamid al-Sayfi reported feeling isolated and fearful, stating, “Whoever steps outside is fired upon by the drones.” This environment of fear has led many to remain confined indoors as the conflict escalates.
In Tel Aviv, large protests erupted as tens of thousands gathered to demand an end to the war and the safe return of hostages. Netanyahu has faced criticism for the ongoing military actions, yet he remains steadfast in his belief that the conflict must be resolved decisively. He remarked, “It started in Gaza and it will end in Gaza. We will not leave those monsters there.”
As the situation evolves, the international community watches closely, anticipating the outcomes of diplomatic efforts and the humanitarian implications of continued military actions in Gaza. The complex interplay between military strategy and humanitarian needs underscores the urgency of finding a resolution in a region long plagued by conflict.