Israel says its military has begun 'expanded ground operations' in Gaza City

Geopolitical Situation - Israeli military initiated ground operations in Gaza City following shaping operations over the past several months [1] - The operation is anticipated to be lengthy, potentially lasting several months, according to Israeli officials [2] Humanitarian Concerns - Gaza City is a densely populated area that had been relatively spared from attacks for the past 2 years [2] - Approximately 20 hostages are suspected to still be alive within the area [2]