Israel has indicated it is ready to conclude its bombardment of northern Gaza, claiming it has “dismantled” Hamas in that part of the territory. The military spokesperson announced on Sunday that Israel had nullified the armed group’s presence in northern Gaza, extending signs that it plans to transition to a more targeted campaign. This statement coincided with visits by top American and European diplomats, who are increasing international pressure due to the mounting death toll and deepening humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
Focus Shifts to Central and Southern Gaza
The military spokesperson asserted that Israeli forces had dismantled Hamas’ “military framework” in northern Gaza, having killed approximately 8,000 fighters. While scattered resistance and rocket fire may continue, Hamas no longer operates in an organized manner in the north, according to the spokesperson.
Despite this declaration, the spokesperson did not comment on future troop deployments in northern Gaza, only stating that the military would “continue to deepen the achievement.” Meanwhile, Israel’s military focus will shift to dismantling Hamas in the central and southern parts of the enclave. These areas have seen a massive influx of displaced Palestinians, who had fled the north when it was previously designated as a “safe zone” by Israel.
Humanitarian Crisis and Mounting Pressure
Since Hamas’ initial attack on October 7, which killed about 1,140 people in Israel and saw 240 captives taken, the Israeli military’s response has caused devastating casualties in Gaza. Recent figures show nearly 23,000 people have been killed, with more than 58,000 wounded. Many remain missing, feared trapped under the rubble of bombed buildings. Over two million people, the majority of Gaza’s population, have been displaced and are struggling with severe shortages of food and shelter.
International pressure, particularly from the United States, has mounted on Israel to end the widespread bombardment. U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken and the EU’s top diplomat, Josep Borrell, are currently in the region urging Israel to adjust its tactics to reduce civilian casualties and increase the flow of humanitarian aid into Gaza. However, Israel has remained firm in its objectives to dismantle Hamas and secure the return of hostages before ending its military operations.
Risk of Regional Spillover
With the conflict showing no signs of abating, the risk of the war expanding beyond Gaza is increasing. Tensions are flaring in the occupied West Bank, along Israel’s border with Lebanon, and in Iraq, Syria, and the Red Sea. Jordan’s King Abdullah warned U.S. Secretary of State Blinken about the “catastrophic repercussions” of Israel’s continued military actions, signaling growing regional concerns about a wider conflict.
As Israel presses ahead with its campaign, international efforts to de-escalate the conflict and prevent further humanitarian disaster are intensifying, but the path to peace remains uncertain.
