Gaza Under Fire: Israel's Ground Offensive After Deadly Airstrikes

Israel's Gaza Ground Operation: Over 100 Killed in Airstrikes Gaza, Palestine - In a significant escalation of the ongoing conflict, Israel launched a series of airstrikes in Gaza on May 18, 2025, resulting in the deaths of at least 103 people, the majority of whom were women and children. The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) subsequently announced the commencement of a large-scale ground operation, codenamed 'Operation Gideon’s Chariot'. The IDF stated the operation's objective is to secure the release of remaining hostages and to neutralize Hamas operatives. Video footage from Gaza depicts scenes of widespread destruction, showing burning buildings and grieving families mourning their loved ones. One video shows a woman wailing over a body, while another shows a young boy clearing debris from a destroyed home. The emotional impact of the attacks is palpable. Dr. Tom Potokar, a British surgeon working at the European Gaza Hospital, provided a first-hand account of the situation. "One of the patients I operated on this morning has significant injuries," he said. "She's not yet aware that her entire family has been killed. This is a common scenario." His statement underscores the human cost of the conflict. The IDF's announcement that the ground operation will continue until Hamas is defeated suggests a protracted and potentially devastating conflict ahead. The international community is closely watching the situation, with concerns growing about the escalating violence and the humanitarian crisis unfolding in Gaza.