Israel Launches Full-Scale Ground Operation in Gaza Amid Fragile Ceasefire Talks

Israeli forces intensify operations in Gaza
as talks stall in Doha.

Israel Escalates Gaza Offensive as Ceasefire Talks Begin in Qatar

The Israeli military launched a full-scale ground assault across northern and southern Gaza on Sunday, intensifying an already devastating air campaign that has claimed over 100 lives overnight. The move comes as international mediators attempt to jumpstart ceasefire negotiations between Israel and Hamas in Doha.

Gideon's Chariots: Israel’s New Campaign Intensifies Hostilities

Dubbed “Gideon’s Chariots,” the latest Israeli operation seeks to achieve the full objectives of the war: the defeat of Hamas and the release of hostages. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) said the campaign will expand operational control across Gaza and facilitate the movement of civilians for their protection.

“We will increase and expand our control in the Gaza Strip,” said IDF spokesperson Effie Defrin.

Amid escalating military pressure, Israeli officials have agreed to allow limited food aid into the enclave to prevent widespread hunger, though concerns persist over the growing humanitarian catastrophe.

Conflicting Signals in Ceasefire Negotiations

Ceasefire discussions began Saturday in Doha without preconditions, according to Hamas-run media. However, conflicting statements from Hamas leaders have cast doubt on the process. While one official suggested a potential exchange of hostages for a 60-day ceasefire, others firmly denied any agreement, insisting that any release must be accompanied by a permanent halt to Israeli aggression.

“We are ready to release all prisoners if the occupation stops hostilities under international guarantees,” said senior Hamas leader Sami Abu Zuhri.

U.S. Influence and Trump's Middle East Diplomacy

Analysts suggest that the renewed dialogue is partly due to diplomatic pressure from former U.S. President Donald Trump, who recently visited Qatar. Trump proposed turning Gaza into a "freedom zone" under U.S. supervision, claiming it would benefit both Palestinians and Israelis.

Despite bypassing Israel during his Middle East trip, Trump denied sidelining the country, saying his actions are “good for Israel.”

Humanitarian Crisis Deepens as Hospitals Collapse

The humanitarian situation in Gaza continues to deteriorate rapidly. Health officials report over 300 deaths and more than 1,000 injuries since Thursday’s intensified airstrikes. The only functioning hospital in northern Gaza, the Indonesian Hospital in Beit Lahiya, is now out of service following nearby strikes.

“The hospital is completely besieged,” said Dr. Marwan Al-Sultan. “We are deeply helpless.”

In southern Gaza’s Al-Mawasi, entire families—many living in displacement camps—have been killed in their sleep. Medical supplies are dwindling, and essential systems such as ventilators and oxygen lines have been destroyed.

Famine Risk Looms as Limited Aid Resumes

Following widespread criticism and a UN warning that Gaza’s entire population faces famine, Israel announced a plan to allow basic food supplies into the territory. The newly formed U.S.-backed Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF) welcomed the move but warned it may fall short.

“Today’s announcement marks an important interim step,” said GHF director Jake Wood, promising secure aid distribution sites soon.

However, UN officials argue the limited distribution, focused only in southern and central Gaza, risks facilitating forced displacement and does little to address the full scope of need.

Mounting Civilian Toll and Global Silence

Since the October 7 attacks, over 53,000 Palestinians—mostly women and children—have been killed in Gaza, according to the local health ministry. Civilians caught in the conflict say they feel abandoned by the world.

“They were all asleep… all targeted in their bedroom,” said Omar Qandil, who lost multiple family members in a recent strike.

Hostage Forum Raises Alarm Over Israel’s Strategy

While Israeli authorities claim coordination with the Hostages and Missing Families Forum, the group has condemned the latest military actions, warning that intensified bombings may endanger those still held captive.

“Every delay, every bombing increases the danger,” said Hagai Levine, the forum’s health team leader.

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Conclusion:
As bombs continue to fall and hopes for peace hang by a thread, Gaza stands on the brink of collapse—its hospitals shuttered, its families shattered, and its people starving. Behind the headlines and high-level negotiations lies a growing humanitarian disaster that demands urgent global attention. This is not just a conflict—it’s a crisis unraveling in real-time. Will the world intervene before the last light goes out in Gaza? Or will silence write the final chapter?