Offensive targets alleged Hamas sites in high-rises amid deepening humanitarian strain and pressure over hostages

Israeli airstrikes across Gaza City killed at least 32 people, including 12 children, according to staff at Shifa Hospital, as the Israel Defense Forces expanded operations and urged civilians to move south. The military says it is striking high-rise buildings used by Hamas for surveillance and command, part of an effort to seize control of the enclave’s largest urban center, which Israel describes as Hamas’ last major stronghold. Gaza authorities report widespread destruction and mass displacement, while aid groups warn the humanitarian situation is deteriorating sharply.

Evacuations and a worsening humanitarian picture

The IDF called on remaining residents to leave Gaza City immediately for a designated humanitarian zone. The army says more than 250,000 have departed in recent weeks, while the United Nations estimates roughly 100,000 left between mid-August and mid-September. Overcrowding, scarce resources, and the cost of transport are hampering movement. A UN-led shelter initiative reports more than 86,000 tents and related supplies are still awaiting clearance to enter Gaza. Gaza’s Health Ministry said seven people, including children, died of malnutrition-related causes in the past day, bringing such deaths to 420 since the war began. Western partners continue to press for protected corridors and faster aid clearances, with accountability on all sides.

Hostage families protest and push for a deal

Relatives of Israelis held in Gaza rallied in Tel Aviv, urging a negotiated agreement and criticizing what they see as counterproductive tactics by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. The protest followed an Israeli strike intended to target Hamas leaders in Qatar, which families say risks derailing talks. There are 48 hostages still in Gaza, with around 20 believed to be alive. The United States and other allies are pursuing a framework that pairs a hostage release with security guarantees and humanitarian measures to stabilize the situation.

Urban towers under fire as Israel cites Hamas entrenchment

Israel says it struck another high-rise used by Hamas in the Gaza City area as overnight raids hit residential zones, including a fatal blast in Sheikh Radwan that killed a family of 10, according to health officials. The Palestinian Football Association said Al-Helal Sporting Club player Mohammed Ramez Sultan was among those killed alongside 14 relatives in separate strikes. Israel did not immediately respond to questions about specific incidents. Jerusalem argues Hamas embeds personnel and equipment in civilian structures, complicating urban warfare and evacuation efforts.

Balancing security imperatives with regional stability

For Israel and its Western partners, degrading Hamas capabilities while protecting civilians is central to regional stability and the credibility of allied diplomacy. A pragmatic pathway lies in a ceasefire-for-hostages arrangement, robust monitoring to curb Hamas rearmament, and sustained humanitarian access. International actors should press Hamas to release captives and cease using civilian sites, while supporting measures that help Israel achieve security objectives without widening the conflict. The stakes include deterring Iran-backed proxies, restoring deterrence, and preventing Gaza’s humanitarian emergency from further destabilizing the region.