Threat of Bloodshed in Northern Gaza due to Israeli Offensive: 'Hamas Must Surrender or Starve'

tel aviv - The Israeli army is conducting a major operation in the northern part of Gaza, warning hundreds of thousands of residents to leave three villages or face a potential massacre.

The northern area of Gaza has been without humanitarian aid for two weeks. The offensive, expanding further, has reached northern Gaza City with Israeli tanks. Several targets in the central part of the strip, including a hospital compound, have been hit resulting in civilian casualties.

The military states that the siege will continue until all objectives are achieved. Defense officials fear the operation may lead to the annexation of parts of Gaza, though Prime Minister Netanyahu has denied such plans while some in his government advocate for it.

Israeli soldiers are encountering resistance from Hamas reemerging in previously cleared areas. Despite recent blows, Hamas remains a potent force without a viable alternative in governance.

Israel lacks an exit strategy for Gaza and seems to be in a similar position with Lebanon. Defense Minister Yoav Gallant vows Hezbollah will not return to Israel's borders, yet achieving this without prolonged military presence remains uncertain. US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin urges transition to diplomacy in southern Lebanon.

Austin and Vice President Kamala Harris express concern over the humanitarian crisis in northern Gaza. International humanitarian law must be upheld to ensure civilians' protection and access to essentials.

Humanitarian organizations both in Israel and abroad worry that the current offensive signals a realized 'generals' plan', proposing harsh measures against Palestinian civilians in Gaza to root out Hamas, potentially leading to war crimes and annexation.

Giora Eiland, plan architect, argues cutting off humanitarian aid will force Hamas to surrender. The plan also aims to pressure Hamas into releasing hostages, a topic overshadowed by recent conflicts in Lebanon.

Despite unclear objectives for the offensive, criticisms point to increased danger for the hostages. The situation around the captives is reportedly neglected within Israeli security discussions.