Captive’s Families Express Dismay as Military Intensifies Gaza Operations
Following a series of intensive overnight strikes on the southern Gaza Strip, the Israeli military has positioned...
Following an extensive series of overnight strikes in the southern Gaza Strip, the Israeli military has reinforced its presence by deploying an additional division to the region. This move has drawn sharp criticism from the families of Israeli captives, who have accused the government of prioritizing territorial expansion over the welfare of the hostages.
According to reports from Palestinian media, a significant series of strikes occurred overnight in Rafah and Khan Younis. Additionally, reports this morning indicate that troops are advancing in Rafah.
At least 21 Palestinians were reported killed in the strikes, according to the Quds News Network.
On Monday, the occupying forces issued an evacuation alert for the entire Rafah region and a vast stretch of land between Rafah and Khan Younis. This marks a significant move as ground troops have not previously operated in this area.
Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz announced plans for military operations aimed at eliminating terrorist threats and dismantling infrastructure, with the objective of expanding territories designated as security zones for Israel.
Following the announcement of the expanded military operations in Rafah, the Hostages and Missing Families Forum released a statement questioning the decision, asking, “Has a decision been made to sacrifice the hostages for ‘territorial gains?'”
The statement claims that rather than negotiating a deal to secure the hostages’ release and conclude the conflict, the Israeli government is deploying additional troops into Gaza to engage in combat in areas that have been the scene of numerous previous clashes.
The Forum reported that families “expressed shock upon awakening to the announcement by the defense minister, indicating that the military operation in Gaza is set to expand with the objective of seizing extensive territory.”
The Israeli government bears the responsibility for the release of the 59 hostages currently held by Hamas. There is significant concern that this mission has been relegated to a lower priority, becoming a secondary objective.
