Gaza – The Israeli military confirmed on Tuesday the commencement of its ground operation into Gaza City, with an official stating that the Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) have entered the primary phase of the offensive, where officials have ordered hundreds of thousands of residents to evacuate, reports 24brussels.
The escalation follows intensified airstrikes in recent days, which have devastated residential areas, causing hundreds of casualties and displacing tens of thousands of civilians. The military announcement provided limited specifics, mentioning that troops have started “dismantling Hamas terrorist infrastructure” in Gaza City. Residents have been urged to leave for their safety.
“Gaza is burning,”
Defence Minister Israel Katz expressed on social media.
“The IDF strikes with an iron fist at the terrorist infrastructure, and IDF soldiers are fighting bravely to create the conditions for the release of the hostages and the defeat of Hamas.”
How is the US responding to Israel’s military escalation?
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio arrived on Monday and appeared to endorse Israel’s decision to prioritize military action over negotiations for a cease-fire in its confrontation with Hamas.
Despite expressing a preference for a diplomatic resolution, Rubio stated,
“I think we have to be prepared for the possibility that’s not going to happen.”
Rubio stressed that Israel’s demand for Hamas to surrender and release all remaining hostages is essential for any potential end to the ongoing conflict.
What did the UN investigation conclude about Israel’s actions?
An independent United Nations investigation has concluded that Israel has committed acts of genocide against Palestinians in Gaza, describing the findings as the “most authoritative UN finding to date.” This report has drawn significant international attention and concern.
How many Palestinians have been killed or injured so far?
As of mid-September 2025, estimates from the Gaza Health Ministry indicate that at least 64,871 Palestinians have been killed and approximately 164,610 injured since the start of the conflict in October 2023. The former top commander of Israel’s military stated that these figures represent over 10% of the population, corroborating reports from local health officials.
The humanitarian situation in Gaza remains dire, with many victims trapped beneath the rubble of destroyed buildings. The northern region of Gaza has been declared a famine zone, and the crisis is expected to worsen as conditions continue to deteriorate.
