UN Warns of Catastrophe as Israel Delays Ground Assault Amidst Biden’s Visit

In a rapidly escalating crisis, hundreds of thousands of Palestinians in the besieged Gaza Strip face a dire situation as Israel’s heaviest bombardment continues for the 11th consecutive day.

United Nations officials have issued a warning of a “real catastrophe” unfolding in the region. Israel’s planned ground invasion of Gaza has been delayed, reportedly until after the visit of US President Joe Biden.

The delay in the ground assault, which is now set for an “unknown date,” has raised concerns among military commanders who believe it may give Hamas more time to prepare for the offensive. Israel’s military is still in the process of developing plans for the ground operation in Gaza, which will be presented to the country’s political leadership.

Hamas has reported the loss of one of its top commanders, Ayman Nofal, in an Israeli airstrike, marking a significant development in the ongoing conflict.

President Joe Biden is set to visit Israel to reaffirm solidarity with the nation and press for humanitarian aid to be allowed into Gaza. The visit comes after six hours of talks between US Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Israeli officials. Both countries have agreed to “develop a plan” to facilitate the flow of aid into Gaza, where the situation is rapidly deteriorating.

Gaza’s only cancer hospital, the Turkish Friendship Hospital, has been compelled to cease significant parts of its services due to fuel shortages. This situation exacerbates an already dire humanitarian crisis, with over 2,800 fatalities and 10,850 injuries reported in Gaza. Hundreds are feared to be trapped under the rubble, and more than a million Palestinians have been displaced from their homes.

As the conflict enters its 11th day, Gaza’s residents and humanitarian groups are pleading for essential supplies, including water, food, and fuel. Hospitals are on the verge of losing electricity, endangering the lives of patients, while the population is resorting to drinking contaminated water, risking the spread of disease.

In the midst of this intensifying crisis, US President Joe Biden’s visit to Israel is closely watched as efforts are made to reach a ceasefire that would allow aid to flow into Gaza. Secretary of State Antony Blinken reaffirmed the United States’ commitment to Israel’s security while acknowledging Israel’s right to defend itself against attacks by Hamas and other terrorists.