Israeli forces escalated ground operations in Gaza City on Sunday, deploying tanks into residential neighborhoods under aerial bombardment as fears grow of a full-scale invasion. Residents reported armored vehicles advancing into Zeitoun, al-Sabra, and Jabalia districts, with warplanes targeting buildings and displacing families fleeing westward.
Humanitarian Crisis Deepens
Gaza's Civil Defense spokesperson Mahmoud Basal confirmed strikes on homes, schools, and displacement camps, while hospitals overwhelmed by casualties face critical supply shortages. At least 25 deaths were reported in recent attacks, with health authorities stating 10,842 Palestinians killed since March. Officials warn 289 people – including 115 children – have died from malnutrition amid Israel's blockade.
Diplomatic Tensions Rise
The Hamas-run government media office condemned Israel's military expansion as a 'major war crime,' citing collapsed healthcare infrastructure. Meanwhile, Hamas claims readiness for a ceasefire and prisoner exchange, accusing Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of obstructing negotiations mediated by Egypt and Qatar.
Military Objectives Outlined
Israel's military stated its renewed Jabalia operations aim to 'degrade Hamas' capabilities' through infrastructure dismantling. The Palestinian Foreign Ministry urged international intervention to address what it called Israel's 'deliberate policy' of famine, vowing to pursue legal action over Gaza's humanitarian collapse.
