Israeli forces exert control over approximately 40% of Gaza City

In a surprising turn of events, Teresa Ribera, Vice-President of the European Commission, has described Israel's actions in the Gaza Strip as genocide. This statement, however, was not endorsed by the European Commission shortly after.

Ribera, who is also a member of the EU Commission, made this statement in Brussels, where she serves as a key figure in the institution. However, it is important to note that she is not responsible for the EU's foreign policy.

The conflict in question began on October 7, 2023, when Hamas and its allies launched an attack on Israel, sparking the current war. Hamas, a terrorist organisation that has ruled the narrow coastal strip for nearly two decades, has been heavily criticised for its actions.

The Israeli army has been engaged in a military offensive in the Gaza Strip, with reports suggesting that they have taken a large part of the city. The army spokesman, Effie Defrin, has stated that the offensive will be expanded and intensified in the coming days, with the aim of increasing pressure on Hamas until it is defeated.

According to Israeli figures, more than 1,200 people have been killed in the large-scale attack. Hamas authorities, although unverified, claim that more than 64,000 people have been killed so far in Israel's military operations in the Gaza Strip. As of Thursday, the Israeli army controls 40 percent of the city of Gaza's territory.

Notably, 251 people were taken hostage in the coastal strip, with 47 still being held according to recent reports. Israeli figures also report that 25 of these hostages have died.

The military offensive has been sharply criticised internationally. Italy, for instance, has threatened to paralyse Israel's trade if the Greta's Gaza fleet is stopped. The EU Commission has accused Israel of human rights violations but has not spoken of genocide until now.

Israel, however, rejects the charge of genocide. The city of Gaza is considered one of the last strongholds of Hamas in the Gaza Strip, and Israel maintains that its actions are necessary to protect its citizens from terrorist attacks.

This development in the ongoing conflict is a significant one, with implications for the future of relations between Israel and the EU. As the situation continues to unfold, the international community will be watching closely.