Israeli forces have intensified their bombardment of Gaza City, with tanks pushing into new areas on the outskirts of the urban center. Residents in the affected suburbs reported that tanks shelled houses, forcing many to flee deeper into the city. This escalation comes as Israel prepares to launch a new offensive in Gaza City, which it views as the last stronghold of the militant group Hamas.
The international community has widely condemned the impending offensive, citing concerns over the potential for significant civilian casualties. More than one million Palestinians are currently sheltering in Gaza City, and there are fears that they may be forced to flee again. Aid workers have warned that a new offensive could exacerbate the already dire humanitarian crisis in the city.
The situation in Gaza City is increasingly desperate, with whole neighborhoods lying in ruins and famine officially declared. Plumes of smoke were seen rising from behind tents and buildings on Thursday, and local medical officials reported that over 50 people had been killed across the enclave since dawn. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has described the campaign as a “new and dangerous phase of the war” that will have devastating consequences.
Guterres also expressed concern over the blocking or delay of UN-led humanitarian efforts in the enclave, stating that people are dying of hunger due to “deliberate decisions that defy basic humanity.” Israel has denied attempting to starve Gaza and has dismissed a report by a global hunger monitor that found the city and surrounding areas are suffering from famine.
Earlier this week, South Africa called on Israel to accept a ceasefire negotiated by Egypt and Qatar, which has already been approved by Hamas. The proposed 60-day ceasefire would allow for the return of some of the Israeli hostages. However, Israel has not responded to the proposal. According to Gaza’s Health Ministry, Israel’s offensive has killed nearly 63,000 Palestinians during the war, with around half of the victims being women and children.
The conflict was triggered by a Hamas-led attack on October 7, 2023, which resulted in the abduction of 251 people and the deaths of around 1,200 civilians. Most of the hostages have been released in ceasefires or other deals, but Israel believes that around 20 of the 50 remaining hostages in Gaza are still alive. The situation in Gaza City remains critical, with the international community urging restraint and a negotiated resolution to the conflict.
