Israeli tanks have been observed in two areas in Gaza City that serve as entrances to the city center, as reported by residents on Thursday. Concurrently, internet and phone services were disconnected throughout the Gaza Strip, indicating a potential escalation of ground operations soon.
The Israeli forces have seized control of the eastern suburbs of Gaza City and have been intensifying attacks on the Sheikh Radwan and Tel Al-Hawa areas. This strategic positioning suggests a forthcoming advancement towards the central and western regions where the majority of the population has sought refuge.
Residents expressed concern over the ominous sign of the severed internet and phone communications, signaling an impending dire situation. The escalating violence has resulted in the deaths of at least 85 Palestinians within the past 24 hours, with most casualties occurring in Gaza City.
In a separate development, Israel launched attacks on Hezbollah targets in southern Lebanon, while two Israelis lost their lives at the Allenby Crossing between the Israeli-occupied West Bank and Jordan in what was termed a “terror attack” by the Israeli military.
Israeli army spokesperson Nadav Shoshani disclosed that significant troop movements towards the inner city of Gaza had been initiated since Monday night. The advancing forces, comprising infantry, tanks, and artillery supported by the air force, are gradually intensifying their operations.
Amidst the conflict, families of hostages captured during a previous attack by Hamas in southern Israel continue to plead with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to cease the offensive and engage in ceasefire negotiations with Hamas for the release of their loved ones.
The ongoing military operations have led to the disruption of services by the Palestinian Telecommunications Company due to the aggression targeting vital network routes. Israel aims to dismantle Hamas strongholds, free remaining hostages, and eliminate what they term as terrorist infrastructure in Gaza.
As the situation worsens, hundreds of thousands of Palestinians have fled Gaza City, while many remain amidst the ruins, lacking basic necessities and living in dire conditions. The international community has condemned Israel’s latest offensive, with calls for humanitarian aid and a peaceful resolution to the conflict.
The conflict has escalated, leading to more casualties and displacements, with both sides standing firm on their demands and objectives. The continuous violence has taken a heavy toll on civilians, exacerbating the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.