At least 64 people were killed and nearly 300 others injured in the past 24 hours as Israeli air and ground forces stepped up attacks on Gaza City, the Hamas-run health ministry reported on Sunday.
The ministry said the overall death toll since Israel began its offensive has climbed to 62,686, with 157,951 wounded.
Residents described relentless shelling overnight in northern and eastern parts of Gaza City, with tanks targeting the Sabra neighbourhood and airstrikes hitting Zeitoun and Shejayia districts. Israeli forces also reportedly demolished more buildings in the Jabalia refugee camp.
The renewed assault comes as Israel pushes deeper into Gaza’s largest urban centre, aiming to seize control despite growing international criticism. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has vowed to defeat Hamas and recently rejected a partial ceasefire deal, insisting on the release of all hostages still believed to be held in Gaza.
According to Israeli officials, about 60,000 reservists have been called up to join the operation. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) confirmed its re-entry into Jabalia, saying the move was to “expand fighting to additional areas and prevent Hamas terrorists from regrouping.”
Meanwhile, the World Health Organization (WHO) said one of its staff members detained in Gaza since July 21 had been released by Israeli forces, though no details were provided.
Humanitarian conditions in Gaza continue to worsen. The UN reports that more than 90% of homes have been damaged or destroyed, while only 18 of 36 hospitals remain partially functional. On Friday, the UN officially confirmed famine in Gaza City and surrounding areas.
Israel launched the war following the October 7, 2023, Hamas-led assault on southern Israel that killed about 1,200 people and saw 251 hostages taken. Families of those still in captivity have been pressuring Netanyahu’s government to strike a deal to secure their release.
Defence Minister Yoav Gallant warned last week that Gaza City would be “razed” unless Hamas disarms and frees all hostages. Israel has also announced plans to evacuate the city’s remaining population to shelters in the south before a full-scale ground assault.
Aid groups warn such an offensive would be catastrophic, given the collapse of water, sanitation, and healthcare systems in the enclave.
