Israel’s Defense Minister, Israel Katz, stated on Wednesday that Israeli troops will remain indefinitely in security zones in Gaza, Lebanon, and Syria. This announcement could hinder ongoing negotiations with Hamas over a potential ceasefire and the release of hostages. Meanwhile, fresh Israeli airstrikes across Gaza have killed at least 22 people, including a young girl, as the conflict continues to escalate.
Troops to Stay in Security Zones
Defense Minister Israel Katz announced that Israeli forces will stay in what are termed “security zones” in Gaza, Lebanon, and Syria. Katz explained that these zones would act as buffers between Israeli communities and potential threats from militant groups. This military presence aims to prevent further attacks like the one carried out by Hamas on October 7, 2023, when militants stormed southern Israel, killing over 1,200 people and kidnapping 251 civilians.
The announcement has sparked controversy, as Palestinians, along with Lebanon and Syria, see this as a military occupation, violating international law. Katz’s statement emphasized that Israeli troops would not evacuate seized areas as they have in the past, reinforcing Israel’s stance on securing its borders. He also stated that this would apply to both temporary and permanent situations in Gaza, Lebanon, and Syria.
Rising Casualties and Displacement
On Wednesday, Israeli airstrikes in Gaza killed another 22 people, including a young girl under one year old. Her mother, also injured, was seen holding her child, still dressed in bloodied clothing, before preparing for burial. These strikes have been part of Israel’s ongoing offensive aimed at forcing Hamas to release hostages held in Gaza. Since the escalation began, more than 51,000 Palestinians have been killed, with women and children accounting for a significant portion of the casualties.
In addition to the loss of life, Israeli bombardments and ground operations have made large portions of Gaza uninhabitable. Around 90% of Gaza’s population of 2 million Palestinians have been displaced, with many being forced to move multiple times.
Lebanon and Syria Tensions
Israel’s continued military presence in Lebanon and Syria has raised tensions with neighboring countries. Lebanese President Joseph Aoun expressed that Israel’s actions in Lebanon were obstructing the full deployment of the Lebanese Army, a key condition of the ceasefire negotiated with Israel in November. Two Israeli drone strikes in southern Lebanon on Wednesday killed two people, further exacerbating tensions. Since the ceasefire, over 70 civilians have been killed in Lebanon due to Israeli airstrikes, according to the United Nations.
Hostage Situation and Ceasefire Challenges
Hamas has declared that it will not release any remaining hostages unless Israel withdraws its forces from Gaza and agrees to a lasting ceasefire. The hostage issue remains a critical point in the ongoing conflict. A statement from the group representing the families of the hostages criticized Israel’s actions, accusing the government of prioritizing territorial control over the release of hostages.
Israel, on the other hand, maintains that its military presence in Gaza, Lebanon, and Syria is necessary to prevent a repeat of the October 2023 attacks. The Israeli government also contends that the presence of its troops in these areas is critical for national security and to protect its citizens from militant threats.
International Reactions
The international community has voiced strong concerns about the humanitarian impact of the conflict. Israel’s offensive, which has resulted in thousands of civilian deaths and widespread destruction, has been condemned by several human rights organizations. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has vowed to continue Israel’s military operations until Hamas is defeated, while also pledging to bring the remaining hostages home.
In a notable development, the Palestinian Islamic Jihad militant group released a video showing hostage Rom Braslavski. This was the first proof of life for Braslavski, who had been missing since the October attacks. In the video, Braslavski pleads for an end to the war and calls for the immediate provision of humanitarian aid to Gaza, while under duress.
