- Our security and defence editor Deborah Haynes says small arms fire is increasing in Gaza – suggesting close combat could be taking place. Qatar has warned Israel’s ground incursion will have “catastrophic repercussions” for the Middle East
With a lot of military activity overnight, including small arms fire, in Sderot, Israel, near the border with Gaza, closer combat may be taking place.
Artillery, tank and mortar rounds have also been repeatedly fired into Gaza, with drones and helicopters flying overhead in Sderot.
Sky News Security and Defence Editor Deborah Haynes, reporting from the frontlines, said several explosions rang out in Gaza, even as many people believe the hostages in Gaza cannot be rescued via the military alone.
“What they can do with the military is subject Hamas to significant destruction, in terms of their infrastructure, weapons and personnel,” she said.
This is just as Qatar’s Foreign Ministry warned that Israel’s ground incursion into Gaza will have “catastrophic repercussions” on the stability of the region.
The operation is part of a policy of “collective punishment and attempts to forcibly displace the Palestinian people”, the Ministry said.
It accused Israel of committing a violation of international and humanitarian law by forcing civilians to flee to neighbouring countries.
“The State of Qatar expresses its deep concern over the Israeli ground incursion into Gaza Strip, and considers it a dangerous development that will have devastating security and humanitarian effects in the Strip, especially on the safety of civilians and hostages,” a statement read.
“It also warns of the catastrophic repercussions on the security and stability of the region.”
The Foreign Ministry said the incursion constituted a “flagrant violation” of the resolution adopted by the UN General Assembly calling for an immediate humanitarian truce.
Yesterday, the Israel Defence Force (IDF) Spokesperson reissued orders for Palestinians in the north to evacuate to the south of Gaza ahead of an “impending” operation.