Israel Expands Gaza Ground Offensive Amid Humanitarian Crisis

On June 2, 2024, the Israeli military, under instructions from Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir, announced an expansion of its ground offensive in Gaza. The expansion includes additional areas in both the northern and southern parts of the Gaza Strip. This operation aims to facilitate the return of hostages and the complete defeat of Hamas. Zamir also ordered the establishment of additional aid distribution centers. This decision comes amid severe criticism from the UN and international humanitarian organizations. They allege a deliberate campaign of starvation against Gaza residents, exacerbated by the closure of aid crossings for over 90 days. On June 1, 2024, Israeli forces reportedly opened fire on a crowd at an aid distribution point in Rafah, southern Gaza, resulting in nearly 50 deaths and over 200 injuries. Witnesses reported Israeli military vehicles fired on civilians, followed by drone strikes. Since March 2, Gaza has faced a severe humanitarian crisis due to the closure of aid routes.