Israeli Ground Assault Intensifies in Gaza City Despite UN Warnings; Thousands Flee in Fear

International Desk | PNN
Ignoring international condemnation, Israeli forces launched a large-scale ground assault in Gaza City on Tuesday. The offensive has been accompanied by intensified airstrikes and continuous bombings, forcing thousands of residents to flee the city.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu described it as a “critical phase” of the war. Defense Minister Israel Katz stated that the troops are conducting operations to “destroy terrorist infrastructure,” “free hostages,” and “defeat Hamas.”

The United Nations and human rights organizations have warned that the offensive could trigger an even more severe humanitarian disaster. Local health authorities have already reported over 90 deaths in the northern part of Gaza.

Many families are being displaced again as homes collapse under the bombardment. Many are fleeing south with only a few clothes and bedding. One eyewitness said, “We are running to escape death, but even while fleeing, we are heading toward death.”

UN human rights chief Volker Türk has called the attacks “unbearable atrocities” and urged an immediate halt. UNICEF has also warned that further escalation of the offensive would cause “unimaginable suffering” for children. Currently, nearly 450,000 children in Gaza City are facing famine and lack of medical care.

The Palestinian authorities have called for international intervention, describing the assault as a “war crime against humanity.”

Meanwhile, Israel continues its military operations with strong support from the United States. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, visiting Israel, called on Hamas to release hostages and relinquish power but described the military operations as justified.

Hamas condemned the attack as “unprecedented brutality.” According to Israeli military estimates, about 3,000 fighters are present in Gaza City. Analysts, however, warn that this may not be Hamas’ final stronghold, and bloodier operations could unfold in the coming days.