Israeli envoy says decision to launch ground operation in Gaza made: Media

By Burc Eruygur

ISTANBUL (AA) – Israel’s ambassador to Moscow said on Friday that the decision to launch a ground operation in the Gaza Strip has been made, the Russian state media reported.

“The decision is related to the implementation of our tasks, which we have already talked about,” Alexander Ben Zvi said, referring to the “destruction” of all Hamas structures and the release of hostages.

“And therefore, without using, among other things, a ground operation, this cannot be done. Therefore, we can say that this decision has been made,” Ben Zvi added.

The report further said that Ben Zvi did not specify when the ground operation would start.

The conflict in Gaza, under Israeli bombardment and blockade since Oct. 7, began when Hamas initiated Operation Al-Aqsa Flood, a multi-pronged surprise attack that included a barrage of rocket launches and infiltrations into Israel by land, sea, and air. It said the incursion was in retaliation for the storming of the Al-Aqsa Mosque and growing violence by Israeli settlers.

The Israeli military then launched Operation Swords of Iron against Hamas targets in the Gaza Strip.

Gaza is experiencing a dire humanitarian crisis, with no electricity, while water, food, fuel, and medical supplies are running out.

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has called for an “immediate humanitarian cease-fire” to ease the “epic human suffering.”

At least 4,137 Palestinians have been killed in Israeli attacks on Gaza, while the figure stands at more than 1,400 people in Israel.