Israel has launched a full-scale ground assault on Gaza City, declaring “Gaza is burning” as troops push into the enclave’s main urban center. The Israeli Defence Forces said soldiers have begun dismantling Hamas infrastructure, urging hundreds of thousands of residents to leave immediately.
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Defence Minister Israel Katz said the military is striking “with an iron fist” to defeat Hamas and secure the release of hostages. Residents reported heavy bombardment over the past two days, with homes destroyed by tanks, planes, and naval forces. Gaza health officials said at least 24 people were killed in the early hours of the operation.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu confirmed the assault while appearing in court, saying the capture of Gaza City is essential to dismantle Hamas. Around 320,000 people have already fled the city, but officials estimate more than 600,000 remain. The United Nations has warned of dire conditions in southern Gaza, where displaced families are being forced into overcrowded camps.
The United States has signaled support for Israel’s hardline stance, with Secretary of State Marco Rubio backing the demand that Hamas surrender and release all hostages. However, Israel’s own military chief Eyal Zamir urged Netanyahu to consider a ceasefire, warning of risks to hostages and soldiers.
Hamas’s October 2023 attack killed 1,200 people and took 251 hostages, sparking the war. Since then, Gaza’s health ministry says more than 64,000 Palestinians have been killed, with famine spreading in parts of the territory.
