The expansion of Israel’s operation in Gaza has begun

WorldPolitics
17 Sep 2025 • 1:39 PM MYT
The Independent
The Independent

The world’s most free-thinking newspaper

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  • Israel launched a ground offensive across Gaza City, accompanied by heavy aerial bombardment, with hospital officials reporting at least 20 Palestinians killed and over 120 injured.
  • An Israeli military official confirmed the expansion of operations, stating control over 40 per cent of areas around Gaza City, with objectives to retrieve hostages and dismantle Hamas.
  • A two-year UN probe concluded that Israel has committed genocide in Gaza, citing four of five genocidal acts since October 2023 and accusing Israeli leaders of incitement, a finding Israel vehemently rejected.
  • US Secretary of State Marco Rubio visited Jerusalem, affirming unwavering American support for Israel while acknowledging the Gaza operations and urging a swift end to the conflict by eliminating Hamas.
  • The offensive follows Israel's bombing of Doha on 9 September, targeting Hamas leaders, an action taken without prior US or Qatari knowledge, which prompted an emergency meeting of 50 Arab and Islamic leaders in Qatar.

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