The 36th Division initiated its entry following a fortnight of preparatory airstrikes. Photo credit: ImageBank4u/Shutterstock
On September 21, the Israeli military confirmed the deployment of tanks into Gaza City as part of Operation Gideon II. The 36th Division initiated its entry following a fortnight of preparatory airstrikes, aimed at isolating combat zones and facilitating the advance of ground troops. The operation is intended to establish full control over Gaza City, a densely populated area that previously housed approximately one million residents. Current estimates suggest that between 600,000 and 800,000 civilians remain in the city, many of whom are unable to flee due to limited resources, the destruction of infrastructure, and the lack of safe corridors.
The humanitarian situation in Gaza has deteriorated rapidly. The city has lost all telephone and internet connectivity, indicating a potential intensification of military operations. Many residents remain trapped in central and western areas, where continuous bombardment has destroyed homes, hospitals, and other critical infrastructure. The blockade of essential supplies, including food, water, and medical aid, has led to severe shortages. Reports indicate that tens of thousands of people have already died since the conflict escalated, with many deaths attributed to starvation and the inability to access medical care.
Despite the dire circumstances, the Israeli military has attempted to provide evacuation options through temporary corridors and leaflet drops. However, the scale of the conflict and the density of the population have made safe evacuation extremely difficult. Civilian displacement has been massive, with thousands seeking shelter in overcrowded buildings or attempting dangerous journeys to reach areas outside the city. The lack of electricity, running water, and medical services has worsened the crisis, making conditions increasingly precarious for those remaining in Gaza. Internationally, Israel’s actions have been met with significant criticism. A United Nations commission has accused Israel of committing acts that could amount to genocide in Gaza, citing the widespread civilian casualties and the use of food shortages as a weapon of war. In response, several countries, including the United Kingdom, Canada, and Australia, have officially recognised the State of Palestine. Israeli officials have condemned these recognitions, describing them as an unjust reward for violence and terrorism. Some Israeli ministers, including the Finance Minister, have signalled a willingness to coordinate reconstruction efforts in Gaza with the United States, despite the ongoing military operations, highlighting the complex balance between military action and humanitarian considerations.
Domestically, the Israeli government faces growing pressure over its policies in the West Bank. Ministers such as Itamar Ben Gvir have publicly called for the full annexation of the territory, arguing that international recognition of Palestine undermines Israel’s security and territorial claims. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is reported to be considering reintroducing the annexation agenda within the government, a move likely to provoke further tension both domestically and internationally. The internal political debate reflects broader questions about Israel’s long-term strategy in the region, balancing security concerns with international diplomatic pressures.
The combination of intensified military operations in Gaza and ongoing debates over the West Bank has created a highly volatile situation. The international community remains divided, with some countries supporting Israel’s right to self-defence and others urging immediate ceasefires and accountability for alleged violations of international law. As the situation continues to unfold, the prospects for peace and stability in the region remain uncertain, and the humanitarian crisis shows no immediate signs of abating.
The unfolding events in Gaza and the potential annexation of the West Bank are likely to have lasting political, social, and humanitarian consequences. The scale of civilian suffering, combined with international condemnation and internal political pressures, underscores the complexity and urgency of the situation, leaving the future of the region highly unpredictable.
