Israeli forces carried out demolitions of residential buildings in Gaza City on Sunday, resulting in the deaths of at least 31 Palestinians and causing many residents to flee, according to health authorities in Gaza. Israel’s tanks advanced further into the densely populated city as part of its ongoing ground assault.
After nearly two years of conflict, Israel has targeted Gaza City, referring to it as the final stronghold of Hamas. The military has been destroying housing structures believed to be utilized by the militant group. Among the casualties on Sunday were a pregnant woman and her two children, as confirmed by medics. The Israeli military did not immediately address these specific deaths but stated that its forces had eliminated “numerous” militants.
Families of the victims searched through the debris of a targeted apartment building in Gaza City, attempting to salvage their belongings. One relative, Mosallam Al-Hadad, lamented the loss of his daughter-in-law, unborn grandchild, and her other children in the attack. He also shared the severe injuries sustained by his son, whose leg had to be amputated following the strike.
Israel announced on Saturday that its operations in Gaza City had expanded, resulting in the deaths of 30 militants and the discovery of weapons caches. Witnesses observed Israeli tanks moving westward through Tel Al-Hawa, a suburb in the southeast.
According to the Israeli military, over 450,000 individuals have evacuated the city since the beginning of September, a figure disputed by Hamas. The militant group claims that around 300,000 people have left and approximately 900,000 residents remain in Gaza City.
Meanwhile, in southern Israel, air raid sirens were activated as Gaza militants launched two rockets across the border. The Israeli military reported that one rocket was intercepted, while the other landed in an open area without causing any injuries.
The Israeli offensive in Gaza City has sparked international criticism, leading some Western allies of Israel to announce their intention to recognize a Palestinian state before the upcoming U.N. General Assembly meeting. British Prime Minister Keir Starmer was expected to make such an announcement, deviating from the UK’s traditional stance, despite objections from Israel and the U.S.
Families of Israeli hostages held by Hamas in Gaza expressed their concerns, with calls for Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to negotiate a resolution to end the conflict and secure the release of the captives. A rally outside Netanyahu’s official residence demanded action to bring the hostages back home. One parent, Michel Illouz, accused the Prime Minister of prolonging the conflict, leading to casualties and the abduction of their loved ones.
The attacks on October 7, 2023, resulted in 1,200 fatalities and the abduction of 251 individuals, according to Israeli reports. The ongoing campaign by Israel has caused significant civilian casualties, with over 65,000 Palestinians killed, severe food shortages, widespread destruction of infrastructure, and mass displacement across the region.