On Tuesday, British Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper criticized Israel’s expansion of its ground operations in Gaza, labeling the move as “reckless and horrifying,” and called for an immediate ceasefire.
In a statement on social media, she emphasized that this escalation would only result in further bloodshed, the deaths of more innocent civilians, and increased risk for any remaining hostages.
The Israeli military announced the initiation of its expanded operations in Gaza, urging local residents to head south for safety.
According to the Israeli armed forces, their intensified operation aims to dismantle the military infrastructure of Hamas.
Israeli army spokesperson for Arab media, Avichai Adrei, communicated via social media on Tuesday morning about the escalation of Israeli actions following a night of intense airstrikes in northern Gaza that resulted in at least 20 casualties.
Adrei stated, “The Israel Defense Forces have begun the destruction of Hamas’s infrastructure in the city of Gaza.”
He further added, “The city of Gaza is a highly dangerous combat zone; remaining in the area puts you at risk. Please relocate as soon as possible via the Rashid Street to the indicated regions south of the Gaza Valley, whether by vehicle or on foot.”
He continued, “Join the over 40% of the city’s population who have already evacuated to ensure their safety and the safety of their loved ones.”
Israel has been urging Gaza residents to evacuate for the past month in preparation for military actions, yet many have reported being unable to leave due to overcrowding in southern Gaza and the rising costs of transportation.
The Speaker of the Israeli Knesset confirmed that ground assaults in Gaza are currently taking place.
On Tuesday, an Israeli military official announced the commencement of a critical phase in the ground operation to take control of Gaza City, following a meeting between U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in Jerusalem, where it was reaffirmed that Washington stands with Israel.
Prime Minister Netanyahu stated during a testimony in court that Israel has launched a “significant” operation in Gaza.