The Israeli military said it now holds 40% of Gaza City, the largest city in the Palestinian territory, and is preparing to expand the offensive. “The operation will continue to expand and intensify in the coming days. We will increase the pressure on Hamas until it is defeated“, said military spokesman Brigadier General Effie Defrin, News.bg reports.
According to health authorities in Gaza, at least 28 people were killed on Thursday in Israeli attacks, mainly in the city, where the army is advancing towards the center. Israeli bombing has forced thousands of residents from their homes, but many Palestinians refuse to leave despite calls from Israeli forces.
The offensive began on August 10 as part of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's plan to finally defeat Hamas. But the campaign has drawn international criticism and domestic controversy in Israel over the dire humanitarian situation and destruction.
Gaza City, home to about a million people before the war, was badly damaged in the early months of the 2023 conflict. Israel says 70,000 civilians have already fled the city, but Palestinian authorities say the real number is less than half. Aid agencies warn that the displacement is endangering the most vulnerable, including malnourished children.
The war broke out on October 7, 2023, when Hamas militants attacked southern Israel, killing about 1,200 people and taking 251 hostages. Since then, according to local health sources, the Israeli offensive has claimed the lives of more than 63,000 Palestinians, mostly civilians.
The prospects for a ceasefire and the release of the remaining 48 hostages remain unclear, as protests grow in Israel calling for an end to the war and a deal.