Public Outcry Grows Over Government's Plan to Escalate Conflict in Gaza
Across Israel, thousands of citizens have taken to the streets in protest against the government's proposed plan to escalate military action in Gaza. These demonstrations are a response to the government's recent announcement that it intends to increase security control over the Gaza Strip, a move that has sparked fear and controversy among the populace.
Concerns Over Hostage Safety
Among the protesters are family members of 50 hostages in Gaza, 20 of whom are believed to be alive. They worry that the expansion of the military operation could put the lives of their loved ones at risk. Despite these concerns, Israeli leaders are defending their plan, with the Prime Minister stating that this action will aid in freeing the hostages.
Dissent Among Soldiers
The plan has also sparked dissent among the military ranks. One former soldier, who had initially served at the beginning of the conflict, has openly refused to continue serving in what he calls a "political war." He is joined by over 350 other soldiers who served during the war and are now refusing to continue to serve in the expanded military operation.
Public Demonstrations
Public demonstrations have been held near the military headquarters, with family members of hostages and soldiers urging other soldiers to refuse to serve in the expanded operation. A mother of one of the hostages has called for a nationwide strike in Israel, which the main opposition leader has deemed a "justified and worthy" response. Despite this, the country's main labour union has declined to back the strike.
Political Opposition
The Prime Minister has also faced opposition from the military's Chief of Staff, who warned that full occupation of Gaza would be akin to "walking into a trap" and could endanger the hostages. Survey data suggests that most Israelis would prefer a deal with Hamas for the release of hostages and an end to the conflict.
Plan to End the War
The proposed plan to end the conflict includes five main principles: disarming Hamas, returning all hostages, demilitarising the Gaza Strip, taking security control of the territory, and establishing a new civil administration. Despite these intentions, a top official at the UN has warned that a full military takeover of Gaza could have "catastrophic consequences" for civilians and hostages alike.
International Reactions
The international community has responded strongly to Israel's decision, with several countries including the UK, France, and Canada condemning the move. In response to the escalation, Germany has announced a halt to its military exports to Israel.
Humanitarian Crisis
Amidst the ongoing conflict, calls have been made on Israel to allow more humanitarian aid and food into Gaza, where a growing number of deaths due to hunger have been reported. In the last 24 hours alone, five deaths have occurred, including two children. This brings the total number of malnutrition-related deaths in Gaza to 217, including 100 children. While Israel has denied the existence of a starvation crisis in Gaza, UN-backed food security experts have assessed that the situation is already at its worst.
Current Situation
With the conflict escalating, the past 24 hours have seen 59 people killed and 363 injured as a result of military operations. 35 people were killed while attempting to get aid. The health ministry reports that since the conflict began, 61,430 people have been killed in Gaza as a result of military operations.