The northern region of Gaza has become the epicenter of a dramatic escalation as Israeli forces amplify their ground offensive, unleashing a barrage of air and artillery strikes. The offensive, bolstered by tank support, was initiated in the early hours of Monday, sparking heightened international appeals for civilian protection. The strikes have targeted areas in proximity to Gaza City’s Shifa and Al-Quds hospitals, while Palestinian militants have engaged in combat with Israeli forces near the border area east of Khan Younis, located in the southern part of the enclave.
This intensified bombardment follows the release of images by Israel showcasing battle tanks stationed along the western coast of the Palestinian enclave, indicating a potential strategy to encircle Gaza’s primary city. Certain images circulating online seemingly depict Israeli soldiers brandishing an Israeli flag deep within Gaza.
Israel’s self-proclaimed “second phase” of its three-week conflict against Iranian-backed Hamas militants has largely remained shrouded from public view, with operations conducted under the cover of darkness and a telecommunications blackout isolating Palestinians. Although the blackout appeared to lift on Sunday, telecoms provider Paltel reported that subsequent Israeli air strikes had once again disrupted internet and phone services in parts of northern Gaza.
The strikes near hospitals were reported after the Palestinian Red Crescent announced on Sunday that it had received warnings from Israeli authorities to evacuate al-Quds hospital immediately. Israel has leveled accusations against Hamas for situating command centers and other military infrastructure within Gaza hospitals.
Since Hamas gunmen launched an incursion into Israel on Oct. 7, Israel has tightened its blockade and escalated its bombardment of Gaza. Israeli authorities report that the militants have killed approximately 1,400 people and taken at least 239 hostages.
Israel’s intensified attacks have coincided with growing international demands for a “humanitarian pause” to facilitate aid delivery. Negotiations between Israel and Hamas, mediated by Qatar, continued on Sunday.