Israel's army has launched an invasion of Gaza City after calling up sixty thousand reservists, intensifying its campaign against Hamas. The military now controls the outskirts of the city, which has been a key stronghold for Hamas, and has begun operations in surrounding districts such as Jabalia and Zeitoun. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has instructed the army to accelerate its efforts to seize the remaining strongholds and defeat Hamas, drawing comparisons to last year's Rafah operation that led to mass evacuations.
The offensive has forced many Palestinians to flee, raising fears of further displacement and humanitarian crisis. International leaders, including United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres, have condemned the move and called for an immediate ceasefire, warning of catastrophic consequences. Israel's continued expansion of settlements in the West Bank has also drawn criticism, with concerns that it undermines prospects for a peaceful resolution.