Israel Confirms Ground Operation Underway in Gaza City
Israel Confirms Ground Operation Underway in Gaza City
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have confirmed the commencement of a ground operation in Gaza City. Lt. Gen. Eyal Zamir, Chief of the General Staff, announced on Tuesday that forces have already entered the city, signaling a significant escalation in the ongoing conflict.
Addressing reservists called up in recent weeks, Zamir stated, “We are going to increase and enhance the strikes of our operation… We have already begun the ground operation in Gaza [City].” This declaration follows Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s approval last month for military plans to seize the city.
Prime Minister Netanyahu also released a message to IDF soldiers and reservists on Tuesday, expressing deep appreciation and emphasizing the “decisive stage” of the conflict. This operation comes after Israel’s demands for a ceasefire — including the release of all hostages, Hamas relinquishing control of Gaza, and its disarmament — were not met.
The humanitarian situation in the Gaza Strip remains dire. According to the Hamas-run Ministry of Health, at least 76 people were killed and 281 injured in the last 24 hours. Tragically, 13 people, including three children, reportedly starved to death over the same period, contributing to a total of 361 malnutrition-related deaths since October 7, 2023. The health ministry highlighted August as having the highest number of malnutrition-related deaths in months, with 185 adult and child fatalities.
A senior advisor to Netanyahu outlined five principles for ending the war, including the dismantling of Hamas’ capabilities, immediate hostage release, demilitarization of Gaza, Israel’s “overriding security control,” and a new civil authority excluding Hamas and the Palestinian Authority. Negotiations have remained stalled due to Hamas’ rejection of proposals that do not guarantee a permanent ceasefire and Israel’s refusal to fully withdraw troops.
This is a developing story, with international attention focused on the unfolding events in Gaza City.
Disclaimer: This content is aggregated from public sources online. Please verify information independently. If you believe your rights have been infringed, contact us for removal.