Israeli air and ground forces are significantly increasing their strikes on Gaza City, raising grave concerns for the safety of up to one million Palestinians residing in the area. Continuous explosions have been reported in the northern and eastern parts of the city, as Israeli troops focus their efforts on strategic locations, including the Jabalia refugee camp to the north, where buildings have been demolished in recent operations.
According to Hamas-run health services, more than 60 individuals lost their lives and around 300 were injured within a single day due to the relentless attacks. The toll from the ongoing conflict has surged, with reports indicating a staggering total of over 62,686 fatalities and approximately 157,951 injuries since Israel initiated its offensive against Hamas following the attack on southern Israel on October 7, 2023, which claimed around 1,200 lives and saw 251 individuals taken hostage.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has pledged to dismantle Hamas, facing increasing scrutiny and opposition from the international community as calls for restraint grow. Alongside military operations, Israel is mobilizing about 60,000 reservists to join the fight. Specific neighborhoods such as Zeitoun and Shejayia experienced heavy aerial bombardments overnight, while tanks reportedly targeted the Sabra area.
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have reiterated that their operations aim to extend control over more areas, effectively preventing the re-emergence of Hamas fighters. Amid this turmoil, the World Health Organization announced the release of one of its personnel who had been held since July, although little information has been shared regarding their situation.
Internally, Netanyahu faces pressure from families of hostages, many of whom are demanding negotiations for a resolution. Out of approximately 50 hostages, only 20 are believed to still be alive. Indirect discussions with Hamas regarding a ceasefire and potential hostage release have stalled, prompting Israel to consider a full takeover of the Gaza Strip. Current mediators, including Qatar and Egypt, have proposed a 60-day ceasefire, but Israeli officials are now seeking an all-encompassing agreement.
Humanitarian groups are raising alarms over the approaching military actions, predicting severe humanitarian consequences should the offensive proceed. Conditions have deteriorated to the extent that initial reports of famine have emerged, alongside data revealing significant destruction across housing and health infrastructure. With over 90% of residences reportedly damaged and many facilities non-operational, aid organizations continue to warn about the worsening situation facing Gazan civilians.
