Israeli Forces Expand Ground Assault, Bombard Gaza City, Jabalia Amid Rising Casualties

Israeli forces have intensified their military operations in and around Gaza City, with ground troops advancing into residential neighborhoods such as Zeitoun, al-Sabra, Jabalia, and Shejaia, supported by airstrikes, artillery, and naval bombardments. The Israeli military's stated objective is to dismantle Hamas capabilities, including destroying tunnels and eliminating militants, in preparation for a planned large-scale offensive to capture Gaza City, the largest population center in the Gaza Strip. These attacks have resulted in significant civilian casualties, with reports of dozens killed and many more wounded, alongside widespread destruction of homes, buildings, and infrastructure, exacerbating the humanitarian crisis and displacement of thousands of families. Palestinian officials and aid organizations have condemned the escalation, warning of a collapsing health system and describing the offensive as a potential major war crime, while calling for international intervention to halt what they describe as a deliberate policy leading to famine and suffering. Media restrictions and the chaotic situation have made independent verification of casualty figures difficult, but residents describe ongoing bombardments causing pervasive fear and displacement. Israeli officials have indicated that tens of thousands of reservists are being mobilized for the upcoming offensive, expected to begin in the coming weeks despite ongoing mediation efforts by Egypt and Qatar to resume ceasefire talks.