UK, France, Canada threaten sanctions if Israel continues new offensive into Gaza. Here’s what we know

Israel launched a new military offensive in Gaza this week, killing hundreds and drawing sharp international criticism. The ground and air assault has escalated tensions, with world leaders warning of potential sanctions.

On Sunday, Israeli forces pushed deeper into northern and southern Gaza under what the military calls Operation Gideon’s Chariots. The move followed a week of intense airstrikes. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) claimed they struck over 670 Hamas targets. Gaza’s health ministry said more than 400 people have been killed since Thursday.

The latest escalation came just after U.S. President Donald Trump left the region without brokering a ceasefire or hostage deal. Trump said he wanted an end to the “brutal war,” but did not visit Israel. On Thursday, he suggested turning Gaza into a “freedom zone.”

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated Monday that Israel’s goal remains full control of Gaza. “We aim to defeat Hamas and free the hostages,” he said.

Mounting Civilian Toll

Palestinian officials report devastating losses. Gaza’s health ministry said 136 people were killed in just 24 hours on Monday. The last operational hospital in northern Gaza was forced to shut down.

Entire families have died in their homes, according to local health workers. A strike on Nasser Medical Complex in Khan Younis destroyed vital supplies. The U.K.-based Medical Aid for Palestinians confirmed the damage.

Since October 7, 2023, more than 53,000 Gazans have died, most of them women and children, according to Gaza’s health authorities.

Aid Blockade and International Pressure

Humanitarian aid remains a critical concern. On Monday, only five trucks entered Gaza through the Kerem Shalom crossing. U.N. aid chief Tom Fletcher called the deliveries “a drop in the ocean.” Gaza needs at least 500 trucks daily, local officials said.

The United Nations warned the territory faces famine. “Gaza’s entire population is at risk,” said Fletcher. “We already have a plan. Let us deliver.”

Israel has promised a “basic amount of food” will be allowed in. Netanyahu admitted that pressure from allies played a role. “Even our closest allies say: no support if there’s mass starvation,” he said in a speech posted to Telegram.

Foreign leaders echoed this. The United Kingdom, France, and Canada warned Israel to stop its offensive and let aid in—or face “concrete actions,” including possible sanctions. “Food, medicines, and essential supplies are exhausted,” said a joint statement by 23 nations.

French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot called Israel’s steps “totally insufficient.” He urged for “immediate and massive” humanitarian access.

The Gaza Humanitarian Foundation Plan

Israel and the U.S. back a new group, the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF), to oversee aid delivery. The group says it will prevent Hamas from diverting supplies. Executive director Jake Wood said the GHF hopes to operate aid sites in northern Gaza within 30 days.

Rights groups call the plan dangerous. “This weaponizes aid and risks forced displacement,” said James Elder of UNICEF. “Israel must provide humanitarian access, as required by law.”

Fletcher warned against alternatives to U.N.-led efforts. “Will you act to prevent genocide?” he asked the U.N. Security Council. “Or will you say instead, ‘We did all we could?’”

Talks in Doha Resume, But Uncertainty Remains

Indirect talks between Israel and Hamas restarted Saturday in Doha, Qatar. Officials say Trump’s visit likely prompted the talks.

Hamas has sent mixed messages. One senior official said the group was willing to release 7–9 hostages in exchange for a 60-day ceasefire and the release of 300 prisoners. But hours later, spokesperson Sami Abu Zuhri denied the claim. “No prisoners will be released unless hostilities end under international guarantees,” he said on Telegram.

Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant argued the renewed offensive pressured Hamas to return to the table. Yet, Hamas insists no deal is possible while attacks continue.

The conflict shows no sign of slowing. Aid groups warn of mass suffering. Diplomats press for ceasefire. And civilians on both sides pay the price.

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