Israel has announced that its troops have entered the heart of Gaza City as part of their operation to dismantle Hamas. Defense Minister Yoav Gallant stated that Israeli Defense Forces came from the north and south, storming the city with coordinated efforts from land, air, and sea forces. Israeli forces are said to be putting pressure on Hamas militants and their infrastructure. However, Hamas claims to be confronting the Israeli advance and inflicting heavy casualties. The exact situation inside Gaza City and the validity of the claims from both sides cannot be independently verified at this time.
The ongoing conflict has resulted in the deaths of thousands, including over 4,000 children, according to the Hamas-run health ministry. Israeli airstrikes have targeted Gazan cities, killing dozens of people. In response to the escalating violence, the United Arab Emirates has set up a field hospital in Gaza, which will provide medical facilities for children and adults.
As the conflict continues, the international community is closely watching the situation. The UN's Volker Turk has started a five-day visit to the Middle East to investigate human rights violations. Meanwhile, the United States has facilitated the evacuation of over 400 American citizens and their families from Gaza through the Rafah crossing into Egypt.