By The newspaper
Dec 24, 2023, 16:49 PM EST
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has admitted the profound impact of the Gaza war on Israel, stating that the conflict has come at a “very high price.”
The Israeli army has confirmed significant soldier casualties, with more than a dozen deaths in the territory alone since last Friday, bringing the total number of military deaths to 154, the BBC reveals.
Netanyahu’s firm stance is that, despite the high cost, “there is no choice” but to persist, with the goal of dismantling Hamas and securing the release of the hostages.
Rising death toll and humanitarian crisis in Gaza
The Hamas-controlled Gaza Health Ministry reports a devastating rise in casualties, with 166 people killed in the past day and more than 20,000 deaths, mainly women and children, since October 7.
The region is facing not only loss of life, but also a staggering 54,000 injuries. While the Israeli military claims it has neutralized more than 8,000 Palestinian fighters, the focus on eliminating Hamas remains unwavering, even as the international community calls for measures to protect civilian lives.
US President Joe Biden, a key Netanyahu ally, has emphasized the “critical need” to safeguard civilian lives.
The UN Security Council, while passing a resolution for substantial aid deliveries to Gaza, has not called for a ceasefire. Talks in Egypt aimed at establishing a truce have not yet resulted in a definitive plan, although a possible three-stage process including a humanitarian truce and prisoner exchanges has been discussed.
Military developments and strategic control
The Israeli army maintains its intense bombing campaign and ground offensive, asserting near-total control of northern Gaza and expanding its operations in the south. Amid the ongoing conflict, Israel has detained 700 Palestinian militants and targeted key figures accused of aiding Hamas.
The Israeli government denies reports suggesting American influence in refraining from expanding military operations to Hezbollah in Lebanon, emphasizing the need to counter threats from the northern border.
As Prime Minister Netanyahu vows to continue the fight until victory, the cost of the Gaza war for both sides becomes increasingly apparent. The international community is watching closely, hoping for a resolution that ensures security and addresses the deep humanitarian crisis.
The complexity of the conflict and deep-rooted problems underscore the urgent need for effective diplomacy and a sustainable path to peace.
Keep reading:
Hamas claims Palestinian death toll in Gaza war has reached 20,000
· UNICEF denounces attacks on the largest operating hospital in Gaza, with children among victims
· Israeli forces advance into southern Gaza as they intensify military operations
· Islamic Jihad announces that it will go to Egypt to talk about a truce between Israel and Hamas in Gaza