Israel's Ground Campaign in Gaza: Expanded Operations and Communication Blackout

Israeli forces have launched ground operations against Hamas in Gaza, marking the second phase of a three-week-old war aimed at crushing the Palestinian militant group. Telephone and internet communications in Gaza, which were largely severed during the conflict, are slowly being restored. The disruption of communications has impacted rescue operations, with people unable to call for help. Israel has tightened its blockade and bombarded Gaza for three weeks, resulting in a mounting international outcry over the toll from the bombing and growing calls for a "humanitarian pause" to allow aid to reach Gaza civilians and ease the crisis.