Israel Intensifies Gaza Siege, Kills 20 Amid City Assault

Israel has intensified its military siege on Gaza City, fully sealing it off through the Netzarim Corridor and warning Palestinians remaining there that they will be considered supporters of Hamas. The Israeli Defense Minister, Yoav Katz, declared that those who do not leave Gaza City via designated checkpoints face a full-scale military assault, escalating fears among residents who are already facing relentless bombardment. Israeli airstrikes and drone attacks have killed dozens, including civilians at a school sheltering displaced families and near hospitals, with at least 17 attacks on or near healthcare facilities reported by the UN since mid-September. Medical organizations like Médecins Sans Frontières have suspended vital services amid the escalating violence and siege conditions that have forced evacuations of hospitals. The ongoing offensive has destroyed residential buildings and schools, displaced tens of thousands of Palestinians, and caused significant civilian casualties, as Israel pursues its declared aim of crippling Hamas ahead of anticipated rejection of President Donald Trump’s peace plan by the group. The humanitarian situation remains dire, with reports of targeted attacks on displaced people and critical infrastructure exacerbating the crisis in Gaza.