IDF begins Gaza City assault

Israel says its ground assault on Gaza City is underway as tens of thousands of reservists are mobilized amid rising casualties.

IDF launches ground operation in Gaza City

Israel’s military says it has begun the first stages of a ground operation around Gaza City. Spokesperson Brigadier General Effie Defrin said Hamas is beaten but not defeated, and that the army is stripping the group of its operational capacity by targeting underground tunnels and weapon stores. About 60,000 reservists have been called up to bolster the operation, with two brigades on the outskirts of Zeitoun and a third in Jabalia. Civilians are being warned to evacuate to reduce harm. The Gaza health ministry says more than 62,000 people have been killed in the enclave since the conflict began, and the ICRC warns the humanitarian situation could worsen if fighting continues. The IDF says it remains committed to avoiding civilian casualties and to protecting the 50 hostages still held by Hamas, noting that 20 are believed to be alive. Mediators Qatar and Egypt have brought a proposal for a 60-day ceasefire and the release of about half the hostages, which Hamas has reportedly accepted, though Israel has not yet replied formally.

This marks a major shift after nearly two years of stalemate. A ground push into Gaza City raises the stakes for civilians and presses diplomatic efforts to keep aid flowing and hostages safe. The framing around “preparatory actions” and warnings to evacuate signals a tactical emphasis that could widen the humanitarian gap if evacuations are not feasible on a large scale. The international response—especially calls for relief from the ICRC—highlights a gap between military objectives and the needs of civilians who are exhausted and running out of basic supplies.

Highlights

The world will watch how relief and diplomacy keep pace with battlefield moves.