Israeli airstrikes in Gaza City killed at least 31 people on Sunday, including a pregnant woman and her two children, as tanks advanced further into the densely populated area. The escalation has intensified humanitarian concerns and drawn international criticism ahead of the UN General Assembly.
Gazan health authorities reported that residential buildings were destroyed during the strikes, forcing mass evacuations. Israel's military stated its operations targeted Hamas militants and weapon stockpiles, calling the city a "last bastion" of the group. Witnesses described tanks moving westward through Tel Al-Hawa, a southeastern suburb, as families fled under fire.
"The mother, the boy, the girl, and the baby in her womb—we found them all gone," said Mosallam Al-Hadad, whose son survived the attack with severe injuries. Over 450,000 residents have reportedly fled Gaza City since September, though Hamas disputes the figures.
The conflict’s ripple effects continued as Gaza militants fired rockets into southern Israel, triggering air raid sirens. Meanwhile, protests in Jerusalem demanded Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu prioritize hostage releases, with 20 of 48 captives believed alive.
Western allies have signaled plans to recognize a Palestinian state, reflecting growing diplomatic pressure. Analysts warn the offensive risks further destabilizing regional security frameworks as global leaders prepare to address the crisis at the UN this week.
