Israel has intensified its attacks on Gaza, leading to a situation described as “Gaza is burning.” Reports from local journalists in Gaza City indicate continuous heavy artillery and aerial strikes overnight. Unconfirmed sources from US and Israeli news sites suggest that the Israeli Defence Force has commenced a ground operation to eliminate Hamas from the area.
Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz expressed on Twitter that Gaza is ablaze, with the IDF targeting Hamas’ infrastructure in a bid to secure the release of hostages and defeat the militant group. The Israeli Defence Forces had previously advised innocent Palestinian civilians in the city to seek shelter in humanitarian zones before launching the latest offensive.
Following weeks of relentless airstrikes aimed at weakening Hamas strongholds, the IDF is now deploying ground troops to eliminate the enemy forces. Despite the evacuation of 300,000 Palestinians from the city, hundreds of thousands still remain in harm’s way.
Amid mounting international pressure over the dire humanitarian situation in Gaza, with reports of a famine in August, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu remains steadfast in his mission to eradicate Hamas and rescue the remaining hostages. The escalation of attacks on Monday is expected to increase the death toll as tanks and troops prepare to enter the besieged city.
US President Donald Trump has accused Hamas of using hostages as human shields in response to Israel’s actions. Netanyahu, in turn, thanked Trump for his unwavering support in the battle against Hamas and the hostage situation.
Since Israel’s offensive began nearly two years ago, around 65,000 Palestinians, mainly women and children, have reportedly been killed according to the Gaza Health Ministry, which is controlled by Hamas. Despite opposition from some security officials, Netanyahu approved the offensive, which risks escalating violence and prolonging Israel’s presence in the war-torn region.
Ahead of the operation on Monday, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio discussed the conflict with Netanyahu, emphasizing the violent nature of Hamas. Trump’s backing for the ground offensive was conveyed, with a preference for a swift resolution.
Reports indicate that approximately twenty hostages are still held by Hamas operatives in Gaza City, underscoring the urgency of the situation.