Israel claims Hamas 'close to' collapse, UN ceasefire vote: Key Highlights
Israel-Gaza conflict: As the conflict between Israel and Hamas intensifies, the Israeli Defence Minister, Yoav Gallant, asserts that Hamas battalions in northern Gaza are close to disintegration. Surrender is reportedly high among Hamas members, particularly from their Jabaliya and Shejaiya battalions.
Simultaneously, the United Nations General Assembly is set to vote on a ceasefire resolution to halt the violence in Gaza, where hundreds more casualties have occurred over the past two days. Israeli Defence Minister Gallant revealed that hundreds of Hamas operatives have surrendered, suggesting a significant weakening of the Palestinian group.
The Israeli army claims to have encircled the last strongholds of Hamas in Jabaliya and Shejaiya, previously considered invincible battalions. The ongoing ground assault and air raids have resulted in the deaths of numerous civilians in Gaza, prompting the Israeli army's commitment to an extended fight against Hamas.
The United Nations General Assembly has scheduled a vote on a draft resolution demanding an immediate humanitarian ceasefire in Gaza. The emergency meeting was requested by the Arab Group and the Organization of Islamic Cooperation. The resolution mirrors the Security Council resolution vetoed by the United States on Friday. The Gaza Health Ministry reports over 18,200 Palestinian casualties since October 7, further emphasizing the urgent need for a ceasefire.
In a move to increase humanitarian aid to Gaza, Israel announces the opening of a second crossing for cargo inspections. The Kerem Shalom crossing, in addition to the Nitzana crossing, will allow increased scrutiny of goods entering Gaza. Meanwhile, a cruise missile from Yemen, controlled by Houthi rebels, strikes a commercial tanker ship, causing a fire but no casualties, according to US officials.
Allegations surface regarding the use of US-provided white phosphorus munitions by Israel in southern Lebanon. The White House expresses concern and pledges to investigate the reports. US President Joe Biden, acknowledging Israel's difficult position, emphasizes continued military assistance while urging caution to avoid a shift in global public opinion.
UN agency commissioner-general Philippe Lazzarini suggests that Israel's military offensive and evacuation orders aim to clear Gaza of its Palestinian population. Lazzarini highlights signs of attempting to relocate Palestinians into Egypt, whether they remain there or resettled elsewhere.
The European Union announces plans for new sanctions against extremist settlers in the West Bank. EU Foreign Policy chief Joseph Borell emphasizes the focus on introducing sanctions against Jewish settlers involved in violence against Palestinians. Meanwhile, Qatar explores the possibility of a new ceasefire in Gaza, engaging in talks with Israel. Diplomats, however, do not anticipate the resumption of Gaza ceasefire talks for several weeks, according to reports from the Doha Forum conference in Qatar.
- With inputs from agencies
