Palestinians Flee Gaza City as Israel Begins Offensive
Thousands of Palestinians are fleeing parts of Gaza City after the Israeli military launched the first phase of a planned ground offensive, according to local officials. The move comes after days of intense bombing and artillery fire, pushing families from neighborhoods such as Zeitoun and Sabra to seek safety. The escalation has drawn renewed international appeals for a ceasefire, with UN Secretary-General António Guterres warning that an assault would cause “inevitable death and destruction.” Troop positions: Israeli forces have established a foothold on Gaza City’s outskirts. Neighborhoods affected: Zeitoun, Sabra, and Jabalia. Military approval: Defense Minister Israel Katz approved the operation, which is awaiting security cabinet review. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced that Israel is “shortening the timelines” to capture what he called the “last terror strongholds” in Gaza. Residents described the situation as relentless bombardment: Ahmad al-Shanti told AFP: […]
