Israeli Strikes Kill 71 Across Gaza Ahead Gaza City Offensive

Israeli forces have intensified their military operations across Gaza, killing at least 71 Palestinians in the past 24 hours, including 16 in recent strikes targeting suburbs of Gaza City, according to local health officials. The Israeli military is preparing for a major offensive to take control of Gaza City, the enclave's largest urban center and described by Israel as the last stronghold of Hamas, amid fears of significant casualties and the displacement of roughly one million Palestinians. Residents report families fleeing their homes, especially from eastern suburbs like Shejaia, Zeitoun, and Sabra, with many seeking refuge near the coast. The International Committee of the Red Cross and local hospitals have treated dozens of gunshot-wounded patients, many injured while trying to access food distribution sites, highlighting the humanitarian crisis in the area. The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) claim to have destroyed dozens of Hamas targets and killed militants in multiple operations across southern and northern Gaza, including the destruction of tunnels and securing strategic corridors. The Hamas-run health ministry also reports deaths from malnutrition and starvation, further exacerbating the humanitarian situation, although Israel disputes some casualty figures.