The Israeli military has begun preliminary operations around Gaza City ahead of a planned ground offensive, with troops holding the outskirts of the city. Defence Minister Israel Katz approved the operation, and 60,000 reservists are being called up to support it, BBC reported.
IDF forces are targeting Hamas infrastructure while warning civilians to evacuate. Hamas accused Israel of obstructing ceasefire efforts, while mediators Qatar and Egypt have proposed a 60-day truce and partial hostage release, which Israel has rejected.
The International Committee of the Red Cross warned that further military action could worsen Gaza’s humanitarian crisis and endanger hostages. Since October 2023, over 62,000 Palestinians have been killed, according to BBC.
