IDF Intensifies Gaza City Offensive in “One Battle After Another”

Lead: The Israeli Defense Forces pushed deeper into Gaza City on Wednesday, engaging in “one battle after another” as airstrikes and ground assaults marked the second day of the urban offensive, resulting in dozens of casualties and mass evacuations.

Nut Graf: Amid soaring regional tensions, Israel’s intensified operation in Gaza City aims to dismantle Hamas’s remaining strongholds. The relentless advance has prompted large-scale displacement of civilians, drawn international condemnation, and spurred diplomatic efforts to curb further escalation.

Assault and Advance

  • Ground Offensive: Two full IDF divisions-the 162nd and 98th-advanced into central Gaza City under heavy air cover, targeting tunnel networks and command centers in a bid to erode Hamas’s urban defenses.
  • Airstrikes: Over the past 48 hours, the Israeli Air Force struck more than 150 sites in and around Gaza City, including weapons depots and militant positions, according to military sources.
  • Casualties: Hospital officials reported at least 16 deaths from overnight strikes, while Gaza’s health ministry cited 91 fatalities on Tuesday alone, including dozens of civilians caught in bombardments.

Humanitarian Impact

Israel has urged residents to evacuate southward, but overcrowded shelters and damaged infrastructure hamper relief efforts. Thousands of families fled along al-Rashid Street, their belongings piled on vehicles and donkey carts beneath billowing smoke. The UN described the forced displacement as “inhumane,” warning of worsening humanitarian conditions.

International Response

  • EU Sanctions Proposal: The European Union outlined potential trade curbs and sanctions on hard-line Israeli ministers in response to civilian harm in Gaza.
  • Humanitarian Aid: The International Committee of the Red Cross pledged to maintain operations despite the offensive, while several NGOs have temporarily suspended activities due to security concerns.

Next Steps

Israel’s stated goal is to open additional evacuation corridors and press on with operations until Hamas’s urban strongholds are neutralized. International mediators continue to call for an immediate ceasefire to facilitate humanitarian aid and prevent further civilian suffering.