Israel Launches Major Ground Offensive in Gaza City, Escalating Conflict

On Tuesday, Israel initiated a long-planned ground assault on Gaza City, with officials proclaiming “Gaza is burning” amid what Palestinians describe as the fiercest bombardment in two years of conflict. 

An Israel Defense Forces (IDF) official confirmed that troops are advancing deeper into the enclave’s largest city, with plans to increase soldier numbers in the coming days to engage an estimated 3,000 Hamas fighters believed to remain in the area.

“Gaza is burning,” Defence Minister Israel Katz posted on X. “The IDF strikes with an iron fist at the terrorist infrastructure and IDF soldiers are fighting bravely to create the conditions for the release of the hostages and the defeat of Hamas.”

In launching the assault, Israel’s government defied European leaders threatening sanctions and warnings. 

Palestinians in Gaza City described the bombardment as the most intense they have endured since the war erupted in October 2023.

Reuters