Escalating Conflict in Gaza City: Israel Intensifies Military Strikes

Tue Oct 21 2025 03:01:53 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

The ongoing clashes in Gaza City raise severe humanitarian concerns as Israeli forces prepare for a significant offensive against Hamas.

Amid intense Israeli airstrikes and artillery fire, Gaza City faces unprecedented devastation as the conflict escalates, with a staggering number of casualties reported. As the humanitarian situation deteriorates, calls for negotiations to secure hostages and prevent further violence intensify, yet the Israeli government remains staunch in its military objectives.

In a dramatic escalation of military activity, Israeli forces have heavily bombarded Gaza City as part of preparations to intensify their offensive against Hamas. Nearly one million Palestinians are now at grave risk as attacks continue to engulf northern and eastern sectors of the city. Residents report constant explosions accompanies by the destructive sounds of artillery and air assaults.

The latest reports from Gaza's Hamas-controlled health ministry indicate the toll of violence has surged in the last 24 hours, claiming the lives of at least 64 individuals and injuring nearly 300 others. The cumulative death toll of the ongoing conflict now stands at approximately 62,686, alongside roughly 157,951 reported injuries.

Israel's military involvement in Gaza commenced following a deadly Hamas-led attack on southern Israel on October 7, 2023, which left around 1,200 fatalities and saw the abduction of 251 hostages. In the face of mounting global criticism, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has reiterated his commitment to dismantle Hamas, despite the increasing urgency for diplomatic resolutions.

Amidst the military build-up, Israel is mobilizing around 60,000 reservists to support their operations. Notably, airstrikes targeted neighborhoods including Zeitoun and Shejayia, while tank fire was reported in the Sabra neighborhood. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) indicate that these operations seek to expand the fighting into new areas while preventing Hamas operatives from regrouping.

In a related development, the World Health Organization (WHO) confirmed the release of a staff member who had been detained in Gaza since July 21, although details surrounding the incident remain sparse.

Domestically, Netanyahu faces intense scrutiny from families of the captives, urging him to negotiate a ceasefire for the release of their loved ones. Reports suggest that only 20 of the 50 hostages are confirmed alive, underpinning the urgency for negotiations. Recent discussions with mediators Qatar and Egypt have proposed a 60-day ceasefire that might facilitate the release of about half of the hostages, a deal Hamas supposedly accepted. However, Israel demands a complete release of all captives, rejecting partial agreements.

Israeli Defense Minister has warned that Gaza City is at risk of total destruction unless Hamas agrees to relinquish arms and free all hostages. Plans are in place to evacuate Gaza City's population to southern shelters ahead of the anticipated ground offensive. With humanitarian organizations sounding alarms over a catastrophic impact, the United Nations estimates more than 90 percent of homes affected, and famine conditions confirmed across Gaza City.

Currently, much of Gaza’s healthcare infrastructure in ruins has led to 18 of its 36 hospitals malfunctioning, with humanitarian crises exacerbated by failing water and sanitation systems. The situation remains dire as fear looms over the city, as residents brace for potential intensification of conflict.