Israeli bombardment intensified in Gaza City on Thursday, forcing more Palestinians from their homes as thousands of residents defied evacuation orders and remained in the ruins.
Gaza health officials reported at least 28 deaths across the enclave, most of them in Gaza City, where Israeli troops have advanced through the suburbs and pushed closer to the city center. Tanks were seen entering the eastern Sheikh Radwan district, while air and ground strikes hit Zeitoun, Sabra and Shejaiya, destroying homes and tents.
Israel launched its latest Gaza City offensive on August 10, with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu vowing to defeat Hamas in what he described as the group’s last stronghold. The campaign has drawn international criticism over worsening humanitarian conditions, while reports suggest divisions between Israeli political leaders and some military commanders over strategy.
Palestinian officials estimate hundreds of thousands remain in Gaza City despite repeated Israeli evacuation orders. Israel says around 70,000 people have fled south, though aid groups and local authorities say the number is far lower.
Humanitarian groups warn the renewed displacement could be catastrophic. Amjad Al-Shawa, head of the Palestinian NGOs Network, described it as the most dangerous since the war began, noting that many children are already suffering from severe malnutrition.
According to local health authorities, more than 63,000 Palestinians have been killed since the conflict began on October 7, 2023, when Hamas launched an attack on southern Israel that killed 1,200 people and led to the abduction of 251 hostages. Israel believes 20 of the remaining 48 hostages are still alive.
Protests have grown inside Israel demanding an end to the war and a deal to secure the release of the hostages.
Gaza health officials reported at least 28 deaths across the enclave, most of them in Gaza City, where Israeli troops have advanced through the suburbs and pushed closer to the city center. Tanks were seen entering the eastern Sheikh Radwan district, while air and ground strikes hit Zeitoun, Sabra and Shejaiya, destroying homes and tents.
Israel launched its latest Gaza City offensive on August 10, with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu vowing to defeat Hamas in what he described as the group’s last stronghold. The campaign has drawn international criticism over worsening humanitarian conditions, while reports suggest divisions between Israeli political leaders and some military commanders over strategy.
Palestinian officials estimate hundreds of thousands remain in Gaza City despite repeated Israeli evacuation orders. Israel says around 70,000 people have fled south, though aid groups and local authorities say the number is far lower.
Humanitarian groups warn the renewed displacement could be catastrophic. Amjad Al-Shawa, head of the Palestinian NGOs Network, described it as the most dangerous since the war began, noting that many children are already suffering from severe malnutrition.
According to local health authorities, more than 63,000 Palestinians have been killed since the conflict began on October 7, 2023, when Hamas launched an attack on southern Israel that killed 1,200 people and led to the abduction of 251 hostages. Israel believes 20 of the remaining 48 hostages are still alive.
Protests have grown inside Israel demanding an end to the war and a deal to secure the release of the hostages.
