Israel’s Ground Offensive Splits Gaza in Two
In a dramatic escalation of its military campaign, Israel has seized control of a critical north-south roadway through the Gaza Strip, effectively cutting the territory in half. The move comes as Hamas deliberates over a U.S.-backed peace proposal unveiled by former President Donald Trump, which threatens total destruction of the group if rejected .
Humanitarian Crisis Deepens
Hundreds of thousands of Palestinians have fled Gaza City amid relentless bombardment, but aid agencies warn that tens of thousands remain—trapped without transport, shelter, or safe passage. Many are elderly, disabled, or caring for young children, with nowhere left to go in an increasingly fragmented enclave.
Trump’s High-Stakes Proposal
At a joint press conference with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Trump presented a stark ultimatum: accept a ceasefire framework or face Israel’s full military might with “my full backing to finish the job of destroying the threat of Hamas.” The plan, brokered with Qatari mediators, remains under review by Hamas leadership in Doha.
Infographic: Gaza Offensive – Key Developments
| Event | Details |
|---|---|
| Israeli Military Objective | Control of Route 4—Gaza’s central artery—splitting north from south |
| Civilians Displaced | Over 500,000 fled Gaza City; unknown thousands remain |
| Trump Plan Deadline | No formal date, but “immediate decision” urged by U.S. officials |
| Hamas Position | “Studying the proposal” in talks with Qatari mediators |
| International Response | UN calls for humanitarian corridors; EU urges restraint |
What’s at Stake?
- For Gaza civilians: Risk of being caught in urban combat with no escape routes
- For Hamas: Survival vs. political legitimacy—accepting Trump’s terms may fracture internal support
- For Israel: Achieving military objectives without triggering wider regional war
- For U.S. diplomacy: Trump’s re-emergence as Middle East power broker ahead of 2028 election
On the Ground: A City in Ruins
Gaza City’s infrastructure—hospitals, water systems, roads—lies in shambles. With communications severed and fuel scarce, rescue efforts are nearly impossible. The World Health Organization warns of disease outbreaks, while the Red Cross struggles to deliver aid across the newly imposed Israeli corridor.
