Israel reduces Gaza forces amid escalating conflict with Iran

Tuesday 17 June 2025 - 09:20

By: Dakir Madiha

Israel reduces Gaza forces amid escalating conflict with Iran

Israel has reportedly scaled back its occupation forces in Gaza, redirecting its focus to what it deems its primary “warfront” against Iran. The move comes as tensions escalate across the region, with Israel stepping up its border defenses against perceived threats from Iranian-backed proxies in Lebanon, Jordan, and Syria.

Shifting priorities and regional threats

Israeli officials cited a need to address infiltration attempts by groups in Iraq, Syria, and Yemen, which are considered significant threats. While reports indicate no immediate evidence of Hezbollah joining the conflict, Israeli authorities remain cautious about potential involvement from the group.

Despite the reduction in forces, the humanitarian crisis in Gaza persists. The blockade, now in its 106th day, has severely restricted the flow of aid, leaving Palestinians to endure worsening conditions. Local reports highlight the increasing violence at distribution points, where dozens of civilians waiting for aid have been killed.

Humanitarian aid turned deadly

Since the launch of the US-Israel-backed Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF) on May 27, over 330 Palestinians have been killed near food distribution centers, with Israeli forces accused of using aid as a weapon. Among the 48 Palestinians killed on June 16 alone, 33 were targeted while waiting for aid trucks.

The Gaza Media Office described GHF as a “tool of genocide,” accusing the occupation army of using humanitarian efforts as a cover for systematic killings. Volker Türk, the United Nations’ human rights chief, echoed concerns, condemning Israel’s conduct in Gaza as “horrifying” and urging investigations into attacks on civilians. However, Türk stopped short of labeling the situation as genocide in his comments at the UN Human Rights Council.

Weaponizing food and intensifying suffering

Beyond its military actions, Israel has been accused of arming militias within Gaza that loot aid supplies and resell them at exorbitant prices. These groups, reportedly comprising Palestinians opposing Hamas, have also been implicated in executions at distribution sites under Israeli protection. The psychological and physical toll on Gaza’s population continues to worsen, with international calls for accountability growing louder.

A broader conflict unfolding

As Israel shifts attention to Iran, the exchange of attacks between the two nations has garnered international attention, overshadowing the ongoing crisis in Gaza. While Israeli airstrikes have left casualties and destruction in Iran, media coverage has largely focused on Israel’s losses, drawing criticism for its imbalance.

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Despite the shift in military priorities, the humanitarian toll in Gaza remains a stark reminder of the urgent need for a resolution to the conflict.