Israel says ‘Gaza is burning’ as it begins ground offensive
The expansion of Israel’s operation in Gaza has begun
- Israel launched a ground offensive across Gaza City, accompanied by heavy aerial bombardment, with hospital officials reporting at least 20 Palestinians killed and over 120 injured.
- An Israeli military official confirmed the expansion of operations, stating control over 40 per cent of areas around Gaza City, with objectives to retrieve hostages and dismantle Hamas.
- A two-year UN probe concluded that Israel has committed genocide in Gaza, citing four of five genocidal acts since October 2023 and accusing Israeli leaders of incitement, a finding Israel vehemently rejected.
- US Secretary of State Marco Rubio visited Jerusalem, affirming unwavering American support for Israel while acknowledging the Gaza operations and urging a swift end to the conflict by eliminating Hamas.
- The offensive follows Israel's bombing of Doha on 9 September, targeting Hamas leaders, an action taken without prior US or Qatari knowledge, which prompted an emergency meeting of 50 Arab and Islamic leaders in Qatar.