In a significant escalation of the ongoing conflict in the region, Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant has ordered a “complete siege” on the Gaza Strip, accompanied by relentless air strikes pounding the Palestinian territory.
Gallant conveyed this order via a video message, making reference to Gaza’s densely populated environment, housing approximately 2.3 million people, according to reports from AFP.
“We are putting a complete siege on Gaza… No electricity, no food, no water, no gas — it’s all closed,” Gallant declared.
The situation in the area has become increasingly dire, with over 1,000 casualties reported in southern Israel since Hamas militants breached the border on Saturday, launching attacks on communities and towns in close proximity to Gaza. In response, Israeli security forces engaged in intense combat with the militants.
Tragically, an estimated 250 individuals lost their lives in an attack by Hamas gunmen at a music festival near Kibbutz Reim, located near Gaza. These victims included young Israelis and foreigners, with their bodies subsequently recovered by a humanitarian organization.
“We are fighting animals and are acting accordingly,” Gallant remarked in Hebrew.
The latest developments have sparked deep concern both regionally and internationally, as efforts to find a peaceful resolution appear increasingly challenging. The situation on the ground remains fluid, with governments and humanitarian organizations around the world closely monitoring events and calling for an immediate de-escalation of the conflict.