The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have made significant territorial gains in Gaza City, securing control of 40% of the area as part of its ongoing offensive to dismantle Hamas and secure the release of hostages. Brig. Gen. Effie Defrin, an Israeli military spokesperson, confirmed that the IDF continues to damage Hamas’ infrastructure, with the military aiming to achieve all its operational objectives, including the dismantling of Hamas’ rule and the return of captives. Israel has declared Gaza City a combat zone, urging Palestinians to evacuate, with some coalition partners advocating for permanent Israeli settlements.
The conflict has resulted in substantial civilian casualties and displacement, with over 70,000 people fleeing the area. Gaza health officials reported at least 53 Palestinians killed in the city on Thursday, with many casualties concentrated in eastern suburbs. Heavy bombardments have been reported in areas such as Zeitoun, Sabra, Tuffah, and Shejaia, while tanks advanced into Sheikh Radwan, northwest of the city center, causing significant destruction. Mahmoud Bassal, a spokesperson for Gaza’s civil emergency service, stated that the bombardment destroyed four buildings in what he described as a ‘fire belt’ targeting civilians.
Tensions have escalated as the US has called for the removal of a UN official who made ‘genocide’ claims against Israel. The conflict has also seen the emergence of a new political figure in Gaza, challenging Hamas’ rule and potentially altering the regional power dynamics. Israeli officials say 70,000 people have fled Gaza City so far, though Palestinian authorities contend far fewer have left, with tens of thousands still in the path of advancing forces. Israel launched its major Gaza City offensive on August 10 under ‘Operation Gideon’s Chariots,’ deploying tens of thousands of reservists to fight alongside its regular troops. There are still 48 hostages believed to be held in Gaza, and Netanyahu initially stated Israel would conquer all of Gaza after talks with Hamas on a ceasefire and hostage release deal collapsed in July.