International Pressure Mounts as Gaza Death Toll Rises in Face of Potential Israeli Ground Operation

Israel is under increasing international scrutiny as calls for a reevaluation of its plans for a massive ground operation in Gaza amplify. The Hamas-run health ministry asserts that Israel’s continuous bombing has resulted in the tragic loss of 700 lives within a 24-hour period, intensifying concerns over the spiraling death toll in the Gaza Strip.

The conflict dates back to October 7 when Hamas militants infiltrated the border, leading to an Israeli onslaught. Officials report 1,400 casualties, predominantly civilians, and the abduction of 222 individuals. The death toll has now exceeded 6,500 Palestinians, raising fears that it could surge even higher if Israel proceeds with the expected ground invasion, aimed at dismantling Hamas and rescuing hostages.

French President Emmanuel Macron, echoing international concerns, stated in Cairo that a massive intervention risking civilian lives would be a mistake. He added that such an operation would offer little long-term protection to Israel and would be inconsistent with international humanitarian law and the rules of war.

The humanitarian crisis in Gaza is deepening, with hospitals on the verge of “complete collapse,” according to Palestinian medic Mohammed Abu Selmeya, head of Shifa hospital in Gaza City. The United Nations reports that 12 out of 35 hospitals in the territory have closed due to damage or lack of fuel, with over 90 percent of medicines running out.

Israel’s blockade has further exacerbated the situation, cutting off water, food, and essential supplies to Gaza. Relief efforts have been hindered, with less than 70 trucks entering the territory since the conflict began, none containing fuel due to Israeli concerns about potential military use.

Violence has also surged in the occupied West Bank, where health officials report over 100 Palestinian casualties, primarily from Israeli troop raids or clashes with Israeli settlers. As international pressure mounts, the world watches closely, urging de-escalation efforts and humanitarian aid to address the dire situation in the region.