Daijiworld Media Network – Gaza
Gaza, May 18: The Israeli military has intensified its campaign in Gaza, launching what it described as "extensive ground operations" in both northern and southern parts of the enclave. The move follows the collapse of the latest round of indirect talks with Hamas in Qatar, aimed at brokering a ceasefire and hostage release deal.
According to Palestinian health officials, overnight Israeli airstrikes killed at least 130 people, bringing the weekly toll to over 464. “Complete families were wiped off the civil registration record by the bombardment,” said Gaza health ministry spokesperson Khalil Al-Deqran.
The talks in Doha, mediated with international involvement, reportedly failed to yield progress, as Hamas continues to insist on a permanent ceasefire, withdrawal of Israeli forces, and lifting of the blockade in exchange for the release of hostages. Israel, on the other hand, is demanding hostages' release without halting the war.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office confirmed that the proposal discussed included the exile of Hamas militants and demilitarisation of Gaza—conditions Hamas has rejected.
Despite the military escalation, Israeli army chief Lt Gen Eyal Zamir indicated that operations could be scaled back to allow flexibility in negotiations. The ongoing ground offensive, dubbed "Gideon’s Chariots," has reportedly hit over 670 Hamas targets and killed dozens of fighters, according to the Israeli military.
The Gaza Health Ministry reports over 53,000 deaths since the conflict began in October last year, with nearly all of Gaza’s 2.3 million residents displaced. One of the latest airstrikes hit a tent encampment in Khan Younis, killing women and children and injuring dozens more.
Israel has also enforced a strict blockade since March, cutting off food, fuel, and medical supplies in a bid to pressure Hamas. Aid agencies warn of an impending famine, and Gaza's health services are on the verge of collapse. The Indonesian Hospital, a key medical facility in northern Gaza, ceased functioning due to Israeli shelling, officials said.
Meanwhile, speculation swirls around the fate of Hamas leader Mohammed Sinwar. Although reports suggested he may have been killed, no confirmation has come from Hamas or the Israeli government. His brother, Zakaria Al-Sinwar, initially presumed dead, was found critically injured under similar circumstances.
In Israel, frustration is mounting among the families of hostages. “They are deliberately tormenting us. Bring our children back already all 58 of them!” said Einav Zangauker, mother of one of the hostages, accusing Netanyahu of putting political interests above their lives.
The civil emergency services in Gaza report that 75% of ambulances are now non-functional due to fuel shortages, warning that the remaining fleet may stop within 72 hours unless supplies are restored.