Israel has escalated strikes on Gaza, leading to widespread destruction in the besieged city. Gaza City endured heavy artillery and aerial bombardments overnight as reports suggest the Israeli Defence Force has initiated a ground offensive to seize control of the port town.
Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz announced on Twitter that “Gaza is burning” as the IDF targets Hamas’ infrastructure in their mission to secure the release of hostages and defeat the militant group. The IDF had advised Palestinian civilians in the city to relocate to designated humanitarian areas ahead of the ground strike.
Despite weeks of intense airstrikes on Gaza, the military is now deploying troops to confront Hamas on the ground. Images reveal the aftermath of the aerial assaults, with buildings reduced to rubble. While hundreds of thousands remain in the city, around 300,000 Palestinians have evacuated.
Amid mounting international pressure over the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, the United Nations has accused Israel of committing genocide against Palestinians. The UN report alleges that Israel has engaged in genocidal acts, including killings, causing harm, creating destructive conditions, and preventing births.
Israel has vehemently denied the allegations, dismissing the report as “distorted and false.” The country’s Foreign Ministry criticized the UN experts for relying on Hamas propaganda and reiterated Israel’s stance against the terror group. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is determined to eradicate Hamas and secure the release of hostages, despite calls for de-escalation.
US President Donald Trump has voiced support for Israel’s actions, condemning Hamas for using hostages as human shields. Netanyahu expressed gratitude for Trump’s unwavering support in the battle against Hamas. The conflict has resulted in a high death toll, particularly among women and children in Gaza.
As the offensive continues, security concerns persist, including fears of hostage casualties and challenges in governing the war-torn region. US officials, including Secretary of State Marco Rubio, have engaged in discussions with Israeli counterparts regarding the conflict. The ground offensive aims to free remaining hostages held by Hamas in Gaza City.
