Israel Expands Gaza Offensive, White House Urges Restraint
Israel has intensified its military operations in Gaza, striking multiple urban centers as casualties mount, while the United States has urged restraint amid fears of worsening humanitarian conditions.
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) confirmed on Saturday that ground forces advanced deeper into Gaza City, supported by airstrikes targeting suspected Hamas strongholds. Military officials said the latest offensive was aimed at dismantling remaining militant infrastructure following months of conflict.
Palestinian health officials reported dozens of civilian deaths in the latest bombardment, adding to a death toll that has already exceeded 40,000 since hostilities resumed in 2023. Hospitals in northern Gaza, already crippled by shortages of fuel and medicine, have been overwhelmed by the influx of wounded.
The White House reiterated its call for Israel to exercise restraint. “We support Israel’s right to defend itself, but we urge the protection of civilian lives and immediate steps to allow humanitarian aid,” said U.S. National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan.
The conflict, reignited after Hamas launched a surprise attack on southern Israel in October 2023, has drawn international condemnation for its devastating impact on civilians. Repeated attempts at ceasefire negotiations have collapsed, with both sides accusing the other of intransigence.
UN Secretary-General António Guterres warned that Gaza faces “a humanitarian catastrophe of unprecedented scale” unless immediate relief corridors are established.
