Israel launched an intensified bombardment of Gaza City and its outskirts overnight after its Defense Ministry approved a full-scale offensive aimed at dismantling the remaining Hamas strongholds, signaling a profound escalation in the nearly two-year conflict. Residents described “relentless bombardments” across districts including Sabra and Tuffah, as artillery and airstrikes turned homes into battlegrounds. One survivor, displaced from his Sabra neighborhood, lamented, “The house shook all night—the sound of explosions, ambulances, and cries for help is killing us.” Another added: “No one in Gaza has slept, the sky flashes all night.”
The offensive, codenamed Operation Gideon’s Chariots B, was formally greenlit on August 20 and comes with the mobilization of approximately 60,000 reservists, many to enter combat bringing Israel’s total deployed manpower near Gaza City to over 130,000 troops. Military spokespeople confirmed that forces have already begun encircling Gaza City from multiple sides, with two divisions now positioned in Zeitoun to the south and Yabalia to the north.
The timing is critical: Hamas has accepted a 60-day ceasefire proposal supported by regional mediators, which includes phased hostages-for-prisoners exchanges and humanitarian access. But Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has so far refrained from approving the deal, facing internal pressure from hardline coalition partners who oppose partial agreements.
Humanitarian observers warn the new offensive may herald disaster. Gaza faces deepening famine, with health authorities reporting growing casualties from starvation including 271 known deaths and 112 children lost. Ceasefire efforts are increasingly tenuous as internationally mediated proposals hang in the balance.
Israel insists the offensive is a necessary step to “increase pressure on Hamas” as a precursor to larger ground operations, arguing that recent strikes have laid the groundwork for entering Gaza City itself. But globally, the move has spurred condemnation. Critics, including UN officials and human rights organizations, argue the assault will devastate civilians already enduring profound deprivation.
