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Operation Gideon’s Chariots II: Israel has launched a major ground offensive in Gaza City, targeting what it describes as “thousands” of Hamas militants, as part of Operation Gideon’s Chariots II. The operation began on Tuesday, with troops moving from the outskirts toward the city center, following days of airstrikes that destroyed towers and infrastructure across the enclave.

Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz described the offensive on X, stating, “Gaza is burning. The IDF strikes with an iron fist at the terrorist infrastructure, and IDF soldiers are fighting bravely to create the conditions for the release of the hostages and the defeat of Hamas.” An Israeli military official told AFP there are 2,000–3,000 Hamas militants operating in Gaza City.

What Is Operation Gideon's Chariots II?

Operation Gideon’s Chariots is Israel’s military offensive against Hamas in Gaza, aiming to dismantle its forces and control most of the territory. Coordinated by land, air, and sea, it was approved by Israel’s leadership on 4 May 2025 and is named after the biblical warrior Gideon.

The offensive has already claimed lives. Overnight and into Tuesday, Israeli strikes killed at least 34 Palestinians, according to Shifa Hospital. Israel has designated the al-Rashid coastal road as the only permitted route for civilians wishing to flee the fighting, highlighting concerns for the safety of non-combatants.

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UN Inquiry Finds Israel Guilty Of Genocide In Gaza

A United Nations Commission of Inquiry has concluded that Israel has committed genocide in Gaza, holding top officials, including Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, responsible for inciting the acts. Commission head Navi Pillay described the situation as a “moral outrage and a legal emergency,” accusing Israeli authorities of orchestrating a genocidal campaign to destroy Palestinians in Gaza. The report coincides with Israel’s new ground operation in Gaza City, which Israel has dismissed as “scandalous” and “fake.” "The ongoing genocide in Gaza is a moral outrage and a legal emergency," said Navi Pillay.

UN Human Rights Chief Calls For Halt

Volker Turk, UN Human Rights Chief, urged Israel to stop the offensive immediately, stating in Geneva, “I can only think of what it means for women, for malnourished children, for people with disabilities if they are again attacked in this way. The only response to this is: stop the carnage.” He added, “Palestinians, Israelis scream for peace. Everyone wants an end to this, and what we see is a further escalation which is totally and utterly unacceptable.”

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Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu described the operation as “powerful,” emphasising that Gaza City represents Hamas’s last major stronghold.