On 7 October, a Hamas cross-border attack on Israel triggered a severe military response, resulting in three months of intense fighting and causing widespread displacement in the already impoverished Gaza Strip. In a New Year's Eve address, Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari of Israel's Defence Forces (IDF) stated that the objectives of the war necessitate prolonged fighting, indicating that the conflict is likely to extend throughout 2024. He added that the IDF is preparing for further warfare and additional tasks in the coming year. Both Israeli and Palestinian parties anticipate the conflict to continue to escalate, exacerbating the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.