On August 27th, United States President Trump chaired a meeting at the White House on the situation in Gaza and introduced a comprehensive plan. US special envoy Steve Witkoff stated that Washington expects the Israel-Palestine conflict to come to an end by the end of this year.
In the meantime, Israel’s offensive in Gaza continues to escalate. According to a report by Reuters, witnesses claimed that last night, Israeli tanks advanced to the Ebad-Alrahman community in the northern part of Gaza City, with thousands of people already evacuated. Israeli forces later withdrew from the outskirts of Gaza City to the Jabalia area, but shelling in areas like Shejaia, Zeitoun, and Sabra continues. The Israeli military stated they are dismantling terrorist infrastructure and eliminating terrorists.
On the same day, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio met with Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar at the State Department.
This conflict originated on October 7, 2023, when Hamas attacked Israel, resulting in approximately 1200 deaths and 251 people taken hostage in Gaza. Israel subsequently launched a large-scale military operation.
Furthermore, military news website “The Defense Post” reported that the Israeli Defense Forces recently signed a contract with the US defense company Xtend Defense to purchase 5000 immersive suicide drones, totaling around $5.87 million.
These drones are priced at around $1044 each and come equipped with a virtual reality (VR) operating system, with delivery expected within two and a half months. With a length of approximately 25 cm and a payload of 2.5 kg, the drones are primarily intended for frontline tactical units to enhance Israel’s ground combat capabilities.
However, Israel’s latest military actions in Gaza have sparked international controversy. On Monday (August 25th), Israel repeatedly targeted Nasser Hospital, resulting in at least 20 deaths, including medical personnel and journalists.
The United Nations strongly condemned the attack and called for accountability. The Israeli military stated that their target was surveillance cameras set up by Hamas. Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu described it as a “tragic accident,” with the military assuring further investigation. Trump responded, expressing his displeasure with the incident.
Sources revealed that the Israeli Security Cabinet convened a meeting yesterday but did not make any significant decisions. The government is still discussing whether to advance the assault on Gaza City and how to respond to new ceasefire proposals.