Netanyahu Criticizes IDF Amid Intensifying Israel-Gaza Conflict

Netanyahu Rebukes IDF Amidst Intense Israel-Gaza Conflict

IDF Intensifies Gaza Offensive

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) launched intense strikes in central Gaza overnight, targeting areas including Al-Nuseirat camp, where two people were killed and 12 wounded. Tanks have further advanced into Rafah in the south, deepening the invasion. The strikes continued in Deir al-Balah, resulting in one death and several injuries.

Gaza’s Health Crisis

According to the Gaza health ministry, the Israeli military offensive has led to more than 37,431 Palestinian deaths and 85,653 injuries since the conflict began on October 7. The humanitarian situation remains dire as aid efforts struggle against poor sea conditions and security concerns.

Netanyahu’s Response to IDF Spokesperson

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu rebuked IDF spokesperson Rear Adm Daniel Hagari after Hagari suggested that Hamas, as an ideology, could not be eliminated. Netanyahu’s office emphasized the government’s commitment to destroying Hamas’ military and governmental capabilities, clarifying that the IDF’s mission remains unchanged.

Hezbollah Threatens Cyprus

Nasrallah’s Warning

Hezbollah leader Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah issued a stark warning that Cyprus could become a target if it allows Israel to use its territory for military operations. Nasrallah threatened a “war without rules or ceilings” if Israel engages in a full-scale offensive against Hezbollah in Lebanon. Cyprus, which has a defense cooperation agreement with Israel, reiterated its neutrality in the conflict and highlighted its humanitarian efforts in the Middle East.

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Cyprus’ Position

Cypriot President Nikos Christodoulides stressed that Cyprus is not involved in military conflicts and is focused on facilitating humanitarian aid to Gaza. He assured that the threats from Hezbollah do not reflect Cyprus’ stance or actions.

UN’s Critique of Israeli Actions

OHCHR’s Report

The United Nations Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) released a report expressing serious concerns about Israel’s use of heavy bombs in Gaza. The report detailed six attacks that appeared to violate the laws of war, highlighting the use of up to 2,000-pound bombs on residential buildings, schools, refugee camps, and markets.

Israeli Response

Israel’s permanent mission to the UN in Geneva rejected the OHCHR’s findings, labeling the analysis as flawed in terms of facts, law, and methodology. The mission argued that the UN body’s partial understanding of the situation leads to incorrect legal conclusions.

Continuing Clashes and Humanitarian Efforts

Israeli Airstrikes and Clashes

Intense clashes between Israeli troops and Palestinian militants continued in Gaza, with heavy bombardments reported in western Rafah. Witnesses and civil defense agencies reported at least seven deaths from drone strikes and shelling.

Aid Efforts

The US military’s floating pier in Gaza resumed operations to unload humanitarian aid, which had been disrupted by poor sea conditions. Since May 17, aid deliveries have been inconsistent due to the unstable situation, but efforts are ongoing to provide much-needed assistance to Gazans.

Summary

As the Israel-Gaza conflict rages on, the toll on human life and infrastructure continues to rise. The IDF’s intensified operations in Gaza, coupled with international warnings and diplomatic tensions, underscore the complexity and severity of the situation. While Israel aims to dismantle Hamas’ capabilities, the humanitarian crisis and geopolitical ramifications persist, calling for urgent and effective solutions.