As the conflict in Gaza escalates, the situation for civilians grows increasingly dire. As of Friday, March 21, 2025, Israeli forces have intensified their military operations, leading to a dramatic rise in casualties. The latest reports indicate that at least 591 Palestinians have been killed, including more than 190 children, as Israel escalates its offensive against Hamas in the densely populated enclave.
According to Al-Arabiya, the Israeli army has been conducting extensive shelling and airstrikes across various areas of the Gaza Strip, marking one of the most intense military campaigns in recent years. By Thursday, March 20, the number of martyrs had surpassed 100 in just one day, with the toll expected to climb as the conflict continues.
In an announcement confirmed by the French press, the Israeli army stated that it had expanded its ground operations to include Rafah in the southern part of Gaza. These operations reportedly involve targeting underground infrastructures associated with terrorist activities. "In recent hours, forces have been conducting ground operations in the Shaboura area in Rafah," the military announced. The statement further clarified that the military operations are also ongoing in the northern and central regions of the territory.
On Thursday evening, the Israeli army also claimed to have assassinated Rashid Jahjouh, the head of Hamas’ General Security Service, amid a series of targeted attacks against Hamas leaders. The toll from the ongoing conflict continues to rise, with the Palestinian Civil Defense reporting that a total of 504 individuals have been killed in the latest strikes, significantly impacting families and communities. The humanitarian situation in Gaza is now deemed catastrophic, with reports of severe shortages in essential resources.
In Israel, political tensions are mounting in light of the ongoing violence. Ronen Bar, head of Israel's Shabak (internal security service), faced accusations from ministers, which he vehemently denied, asserting that the claims were baseless. He emphasized his commitment to acting in accordance with the law, irrespective of governmental pressures. This internal strife has intensified as Israeli President Isaac Herzog publicly expressed grave concern over the government's direction, especially regarding the anticipated dismissal of Bar on charges he claims lack substantial support.
Herzog remarked that he finds it "impossible not to feel serious concern over the harsh reality unfolding before our eyes," hinting at the drastic measures being taken at a time when the nation is still striving to secure the safe return of hostages.
The political unrest is palpable, with public protests erupting outside Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s residence in Jerusalem. Thousands of demonstrators have gathered to voice their dissent not only against Netanyahu’s handling of the hostage situation but also his abrupt plan to dismiss Bar. Micha Halperin, one protestor, criticized the government’s priorities, stating, "Instead of firing the head of the Shabak to avoid an investigation, the prime minister should focus on rescuing the remaining hostages left in Gaza to face death."
This political discontent has further implications, as many Israelis are worried about the increasing divide within their society as the government proposes contentious economic measures, including tax increases and cuts to education and healthcare funding while bolstering military expenditures.
In a corresponding statement from the office of the Israeli Prime Minister, it was announced that the government had unanimously agreed to extend Bar’s tenure until April 10, 2025, or until a permanent director is appointed to the agency. "The allegations against me have no basis in fact whatsoever," Bar stated in a message directed to ministers, maintaining that he had been managing relations with the government effectively throughout the war. He addressed the issue of his removal, arguing that any decision regarding his position must be built upon clear allegations that he could adequately defend against.
From the international community, the White House has expressed unequivocal support for Israel's military actions, with President Donald Trump affirming his backing of the renewed airstrikes and ground operations, placing responsibility for the conflict firmly on Hamas. In a press briefing, spokesperson Caroline Levitt stated that President Trump "fully supports Israel and the steps they have taken in recent days."
Hamas, for its part, has retaliated, announcing missile strikes on Tel Aviv. The militant group warned that the continuing Israeli aggression has dismantled any prospects for a truce and holds the Israeli government accountable for the escalating bloodshed.
Furthermore, in a statement released to the media, Hamas urged Arab and Islamic nations to take immediate action against what it termed an ongoing "genocide" in Gaza, calling for international support to halt Israeli operations and secure the rights of the Palestinian people. The international stage is now witnessing a confluence of military actions, political turmoil, and public dissent as both sides brace for further escalations amid rising pressures from both their domestic and global audiences.
As the situation continues to evolve, the plight of civilians in Gaza remains at the forefront of the crisis, with international observers calling for urgent humanitarian interventions.
