Sun Mar 23 11:16:00 UTC 2025: ## Israel Launches Ground Offensive in Gaza, Urging Palestinians to Flee

**Jerusalem, March 23, 2025** – Israel’s military expanded its ground offensive in the Gaza Strip on Sunday, issuing urgent evacuation warnings to Palestinians in Rafah city. This renewed assault, nearly a week into the ongoing conflict, follows a recent escalation in Lebanon and missile attacks from Yemen, defying calls for a ceasefire that was brokered in January.

Military spokesman Avichay Adraee announced the offensive on X, stating that the operation targets terrorist organizations in Rafah’s Tal al-Sultan district. Leaflets dropped from drones echoed this message, urging residents to evacuate the area and move north.

The offensive comes amidst dire humanitarian conditions in Gaza. With crossings closed and aid blocked by Israel since early March, many displaced Palestinians are struggling to access essential supplies, particularly food and water. The situation is exacerbated by the cutoff of electricity from Israel, which has crippled the main water desalination plant. This affects the 2.4 million residents of Gaza.

Defense Minister Israel Katz has indicated that Israel could annex further territory in Gaza if Hamas fails to meet its demands for a ceasefire. The ongoing conflict, triggered by a Hamas attack on October 7, 2023, continues to escalate despite international calls for de-escalation and a lasting peace agreement. The conflict also involves the continued hostage situation, with 58 Israelis still held by Palestinian militants. The humanitarian crisis deepens with each passing day as the conflict continues.

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