Israel says ‘Gaza is burning as ground offensive begins

Attack come as UN accuses Israelis of committing genocide

- ALISHA RAHAMAN SARKAR BEL TREW

Israel’s defence minister declared that “Gaza is burning” yesterday after his forces launched a ground offensive across Gaza City, with Palestinian officials reporting a heavy aerial bombardment overnight.

Hospital officials told The Independent that at least 20 Palestinians had been killed and more than 120 injured, with women and children making up most of the victims. “It was a very tough night,” said Dr Mohammed Abu Salmiya, director of Shifa hospital in Gaza City.

Israel’s Arabic language spokesperson confirmed the expansion of Israel’s operation in Gaza had begun, just over a week after Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu told people in the city to “leave now”.

An Israeli military official described Gaza as an “urban battlefield” and said Israel had control of 40 per cent of the areas around Gaza City - “but not yet the centre”.

“Last night we transitioned into the next phase, or the main phase, of the plan for Gaza City,” the official said. “Our objectives remain unchanged: bringing home the hostages and dismantling Hamas.”