MAY 19 – International scrutiny is intensifying over Israel’s renewed military offensive in Gaza, which has resulted in the deaths of hundreds of Palestinians within days. Mounting concerns from global leaders are pushing Israel into a critical diplomatic corner, with the United Kingdom, France, and Canada issuing a stern joint warning on Monday. The countries threatened to impose targeted sanctions unless Israel halts its aggressive campaign and allows unrestricted humanitarian aid into the besieged Gaza Strip.
The latest military campaign, which Israel has dubbed “Gideon’s Chariots,” began over the weekend with an intensified ground assault in both northern and southern Gaza. This follows a week of relentless airstrikes that have, according to local health officials, obliterated neighborhoods and killed entire families in their sleep.
The New Ground Offensive
The decision to launch this new phase of the war came shortly after U.S. President Donald Trump departed the region, having failed to broker a ceasefire or a hostage exchange deal. Israel’s Security Cabinet approved the operation on May 5, emphasizing its goal to defeat Hamas and secure the release of remaining hostages believed to be held in Gaza.
Israeli military forces claim to have struck over 670 targets linked to Hamas over the past week. On Sunday night, they extended their campaign into ground maneuvers, hitting key areas in both north and south Gaza. Among the locations targeted was a medical supply warehouse at the Nasser Medical Complex in Khan Younis. Damage to this critical facility further strained an already collapsed health infrastructure.
Health authorities in Gaza reported at least 136 deaths in just 24 hours. In the days since the offensive began, over 400 Palestinians have lost their lives, and more than 1,000 have been wounded. Since the war erupted on October 7, 2023, over 53,000 Palestinians have been reported killed, with women and children making up the majority of casualties.
Humanitarian Crisis Worsens
While Israel has agreed to allow a minimal amount of food aid into Gaza, critics have called the gesture woefully inadequate. On Monday, only five aid trucks were reported to have entered the territory, a fraction of what aid groups say is urgently needed. The United Nations warned that the entire population of Gaza — more than 2.1 million people — is at risk of famine due to the prolonged blockade and the devastation caused by months of conflict.
The leaders of the UK, France, and Canada jointly stated that unless Israel ceases its military actions and lifts aid restrictions, they will consider concrete diplomatic steps, including sanctions. The statement underscored a growing frustration among Israel’s allies, who argue that blocking humanitarian assistance violates international norms.
In response, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu lashed out at the foreign leaders, accusing them of undermining Israel’s right to defend itself. He claimed that pressuring Israel in this way only rewards the perpetrators of the October 7 attacks and sets a dangerous precedent for future violence.
Still, Netanyahu acknowledged that international support could falter if images of starvation and suffering continue to circulate globally. He noted that even longtime supporters in the U.S. Senate have warned him that continued images of humanitarian devastation could erode the backing Israel currently enjoys on the global stage.
The Aid Debate
Israel has been criticized for endorsing a controversial aid delivery mechanism through an American-backed organization, the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF). While intended to create a secure and efficient way to deliver aid while preventing diversion by militant groups, many humanitarian experts have called the plan flawed and potentially dangerous.
Critics argue that the new system could militarize aid, put civilian lives at further risk, and support Israel’s apparent strategy of forcing population movement within Gaza. Some fear that limiting aid to southern and central areas while leaving the north without support could result in forced displacement under the guise of logistical necessity.
The executive director of the GHF stated that two aid hubs would eventually be established in northern Gaza, though there’s no confirmed timeline for when those will become operational.
Global Reactions and Warnings
International aid agencies and rights groups have voiced serious concerns. The head of the UN’s children’s agency described the GHF’s approach as unworkable, emphasizing that aid must remain neutral and should never be used as leverage. UN officials also pointed out that Israel, as the occupying power, is legally obligated to ensure the welfare of Gaza’s civilian population.
The call for urgent action was echoed by UN aid chief Tom Fletcher, who questioned whether the global community would act decisively to prevent what he described as the potential for genocide in Gaza. He implored world leaders to uphold international humanitarian law and ensure that civilians receive the assistance they need.
Where Do the Talks Stand?
Talks between Hamas and Israel quietly restarted over the weekend in Qatar’s capital, Doha, through indirect diplomatic channels. Despite the ongoing military escalation, both sides reportedly agreed to restart discussions without preconditions. However, there is little clarity on the progress of these talks.
Reports have emerged of a potential deal in which Hamas would release a small group of hostages in exchange for a temporary ceasefire and the release of Palestinian prisoners. But conflicting messages from Hamas officials have cast doubt on any imminent agreement. One senior figure confirmed the offer, while another publicly denied it shortly afterward.
For now, Israel has indicated a willingness to end the war if Hamas surrenders, disarms, and releases all hostages. But given the entrenched positions of both parties, a breakthrough remains uncertain.
Conclusion
As the war in Gaza deepens, pressure is mounting from Israel’s closest allies to change course. With warnings of sanctions from the UK, France, and Canada, and escalating humanitarian concerns on the ground, Israel faces a crucial moment. Whether it chooses to de-escalate or double down could shape not only the future of Gaza but also its standing on the world stage.