Gaza on the Brink: Israel Prepares for Major Ground Operation as US Backs Military Pressure on Hamas

Tensions in the Gaza Strip are escalating rapidly as Israel gears up for a large-scale military campaign aimed at taking full security control of the area. The United States, under the leadership of former President Donald Trump, has expressed firm support for Israel's approach, while voices from Europe — notably Italy — have issued harsh criticism over humanitarian concerns.

US Supports Israel’s Hardline Stance on Hamas

In a recent press statement, Donald Trump aligned with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, emphasizing that Israel must decide whether Hamas can continue to exist in Gaza. Trump reiterated that Hamas should "have no place in Gaza" following the deadly October 7, 2023 attacks, and urged the international community not to forget the assault.

Six-Month Military Operation Planned for Gaza City

According to Israeli broadcaster i24NEWS, Israel is planning a six-month military campaign targeting Gaza City, which could begin as early as next month. Prime Minister Netanyahu confirmed Israel's intent to establish complete security control over Gaza, although he clarified that there is no plan for long-term occupation of the Palestinian territory.

Key military preparations include:

Mobilizing up to 430,000 reservists by November 30, 2025

Deployment of six IDF divisions, starting with Divisions 146 and 98

Encirclement of Gaza City expected by October

Evacuation of over 800,000 civilians to the designated humanitarian zone in Mawasi over the next six weeks

Increased Humanitarian Aid Amid Evacuation Plans

As Israel prepares for the ground offensive, the government announced a major increase in humanitarian aid, including:

Raising the number of daily aid truck convoys from 300 to 1,200

Boosting airdrop operations

Constructing additional aid distribution centers

However, international observers and humanitarian organizations argue that mass civilian evacuation under conflict conditions could violate international humanitarian law and worsen the already dire situation in Gaza.

Italy Condemns Israeli Actions, Calls for International Response

On August 11, Italian Defense Minister Guido Crosetto publicly denounced Israel’s actions in Gaza, stating:

“What’s happening in Gaza is unacceptable. This is not a military operation gone wrong — it’s a total denial of the laws and values that underpin our civilization.”

When asked about the possibility of international sanctions against Israel, Crosetto replied:

“Sanctions would not be against Israel as a country, but a means of saving civilians from a government that has lost its moral compass. We must distinguish between governments and nations.”

Hungary Maintains Pro-Israel Position

In contrast, Hungary has maintained its pro-Israel foreign policy. After a call with Israeli Minister Gideon Saar, Hungarian Foreign Minister Peter Szijjarto reaffirmed his country’s stance, highlighting four key points of consensus:

Expanding access to humanitarian aid

Immediate and unconditional release of hostages, including one Hungarian national

Guaranteeing a terror-free, safe life for all civilians in the region

Ensuring Hamas has no future role in the Middle East

Diplomatic Solutions Unclear as Military Plans Advance

With hostage negotiations stalled, Israeli defense officials warn that a prolonged ground operation may be inevitable — possibly lasting at least six months. If launched, it would mark the most significant escalation in the 22-month-long conflict to date.

The global community remains deeply divided:

The US and Hungary support a tougher line against Hamas

Italy and many EU countries call for restraint and humanitarian protections

Meanwhile, civilians in Gaza continue to bear the brunt of one of the most severe and complex geopolitical crises in recent years.