In a bold and controversial move, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu confirmed on Thursday that Israel has armed local clans in the Gaza Strip that oppose Hamas. In a video posted on his X account, Netanyahu stated that the decision was made on the advice of security officials. He argued, "What's wrong with that? It's only a good thing. It only saves the lives of IDF soldiers."
Critics, including former Defense Minister Avigdor Lieberman, have warned that the weapons could eventually be used against Israel. Anonymous sources cited by state-owned Kan TV mentioned that the initiative was coordinated with the Shin Bet internal security agency, even though it did not receive formal approval from the Security Cabinet.
Alongside these security measures, Gaza is facing a severe humanitarian crisis. After 20 months of siege, airstrikes, and ground assaults, key infrastructures like hospitals, universities, electricity networks, and farmlands have been critically damaged. With 80 days of a full blockade on aid, over 90% of families in Gaza now struggle to afford basic necessities, as essential items including meat, dairy, vegetables, and eggs become increasingly scarce. The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) has reported repeated failed attempts to move crucial aid, deepening the suffering of Gaza residents.
This rapidly evolving situation challenges us to think about the balance between strategic security measures and the pressing humanitarian needs on the ground. For young, tech-savvy and socially conscious readers, staying informed means understanding these complex dynamics and engaging in conversations about global trends and human values. Let's keep the dialogue going and explore how such decisions impact everyday lives. 😊
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
