Israel Warns of Prolonged Conflict with Hamas as Fresh UN Concerns Arise

Israel has warned of an extended conflict with Hamas, potentially lasting months, as the UN expresses deep concern over recent Israeli airstrikes that have killed over 100 Palestinians in Gaza in just 48 hours.

Herzi Halevi, Israel's military chief, emphasized in a broadcast that dismantling Hamas requires persistent combat and indicated that efforts to target the group's leaders could be prolonged.

The UN has appointed a Dutch official as a humanitarian coordinator for Gaza and highlighted the critical need for Israeli forces to protect civilians amidst the bombings.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu outlined three conditions for peace in a Wall Street Journal article: the destruction of Hamas, demilitarization of Gaza, and deradicalization of Palestinian society.

Since early October, Israel's response to a fatal cross-border attack by Hamas has resulted in significant casualties and the displacement of nearly 1.9 million Gazans. The ongoing bombardments have raised international concerns for civilian safety as residents face severe shortages of essentials.