Israel's Defence Minister Yoav Gallant, in a recent broadcast, asserted that Hamas has lost control over the Gaza Strip after 16 years of dominance. This statement comes amidst ongoing tensions and violent clashes in the region.
Gallant claimed that members of Hamas, a Palestinian militant group that has ruled Gaza since 2007, are fleeing south, and civilians are looting their bases. However, he did not present evidence to support these claims, as reported by AFP.
The recent escalation in violence began with a surprise attack by Hamas on October 7, resulting in the tragic death of 1,400 Israelis, predominantly civilians, and the capture of over 200 hostages. Hamas militants reportedly infiltrated Israel through land, sea, and air, striking crucial locations including Tel Aviv and Jerusalem.
In response, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu formally declared war against Hamas, initiating a robust military response. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have since engaged in airstrikes and ground operations within Gaza and have mobilized 300,000 reservists.
The IDF's retaliatory measures have led to significant casualties, with reports indicating over 10,000 deaths, including a substantial number of children. Netanyahu has emphasized Israel's determination to dismantle Hamas's military and governance structures.
Gaza, a 41-kilometer-long and 10-kilometer-wide territory, is situated between Israel, Egypt, and the Mediterranean Sea. It has been a focal point of conflict since Israel's occupation in the 1967 Six-Day War and subsequent withdrawal in 2005. Following Hamas's rise to power in Gaza in 2007, Israel imposed a comprehensive blockade, controlling the region's shoreline, airspace, and trade. The Israeli government has pledged to continue its offensive against Hamas until all hostages are returned.
Concurrently, Hamas's armed wing has expressed a willingness to release up to 70 women and children in exchange for a five-day truce with Israel. Despite this, the conflict, described as the bloodiest in the history of Israel-Hamas clashes, shows no signs of abating.
The United Nations has reported that nearly 1.6 million people have been displaced internally in the Gaza Strip due to the conflict. The UN has repeatedly called for an immediate cessation of hostilities. However, Prime Minister Netanyahu has rejected calls for a ceasefire, insisting on the release of all hostages before any negotiations.
As the situation evolves, international observers and humanitarian organizations remain concerned about the escalating violence and its impact on the civilian population in the region.
