Israel intensifies Gaza airstrikes following evacuation orders

Israel escalated its offensive in Gaza on Monday, issuing new displacement orders that forced tens of thousands to flee the north of the territory. Local officials and medical staff reported about 60 Palestinians killed in waves of airstrikes.

The violence coincided with a visit by a senior adviser to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to Washington for talks on a new ceasefire. This followed a social media post by Donald Trump calling for an end to the 20-month war and the release of 50 hostages held by Hamas.

Ron Dermer, a close confidant of Netanyahu, is expected to discuss ongoing negotiations with Hamas and regional diplomatic possibilities with US officials. The Israeli government aims to end the conflict swiftly by securing the release of hostages and defeating Hamas.

Evacuation orders were issued for densely populated areas in Gaza City, directing Palestinians to move south to overcrowded coastal zones. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) now control about 80% of Gaza, with plans to advance into the center of Gaza City to combat Hamas militants.

Israeli forces entered the Zeitoun neighborhood and shelled northern areas of Gaza City. Airstrikes targeted schools and residential areas, causing civilian casualties. The IDF claimed to have targeted militant sites while minimizing harm to civilians.

Israeli officials' rhetoric suggests a potential ceasefire is being considered, with the offensive nearing its objectives. However, challenges remain as both Israel and Hamas maintain incompatible demands, hindering a resolution to the conflict.

Public opinion in Israel is increasingly in favor of ending the war in Gaza, with mounting pressure for a resolution. The conflict has resulted in significant casualties and humanitarian crises, underscoring the urgency for a peaceful resolution.

According to the source: The Guardian.