Tel Aviv [Israel]: Israeli air and ground forces conducted intense strikes on the eastern and northern outskirts of Gaza City overnight Saturday into Sunday, destroying buildings and homes as additional troops were deployed to the northern sector, the Times of Israel reported.
Residents reported explosions throughout the night in the Zeitoun and Shejaia neighborhoods. Tanks targeted houses and roads in Sabra, while several structures were demolished in Jabalia, north of Gaza City.
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) stated that the 401st Armoured Brigade recently returned to Jabalia to join the Givati Infantry Brigade. Both brigades, operating under the 162nd Division, are tasked with dismantling Hamas networks by “eliminating terrorists and strengthening operational control over the area.”
According to the military, these operations are intended to expand combat zones and prevent Hamas from regaining territory. The IDF has indicated that its forces are preparing for a major offensive aimed at taking full control of Gaza City.
Tens of thousands of reservists are expected to report for duty on September 2, with the large-scale operation anticipated to follow in the coming weeks.
On Sunday, local witnesses reported that Israeli forces killed four aid seekers moving through a military zone south of Gaza City—a route frequently used by Palestinians attempting to reach food distribution points.
Gaza’s Hamas-run health ministry said more than 2,000 Palestinians have been killed and over 13,500 injured while seeking aid at distribution sites or along aid convoys. The ministry also reported that malnutrition-related deaths rose by eight to 289 on Sunday.
In response, Israel stated that it seeks to minimize civilian casualties and emphasized that Hamas operates from civilian areas—including homes, hospitals, schools, and mosques—using residents as human shields.
