Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu confirmed on Tuesday that the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) have begun a large-scale ground operation in Gaza City.
He described it as a “decisive stage” in the ongoing conflict.
Speaking at Tel Aviv District Court, Netanyahu said he did not request a closed session because “Israel is in a critical position,” noting that the move follows an intense wave of overnight airstrikes on the enclave.
A Ground Operation in Gaza to Dismantle Hamas Infrastructure
IDF spokesperson Avichay Adraee announced in Arabic that the army has started dismantling Hamas’ infrastructure and warned civilians that Gaza City is now “a dangerous combat zone.”
He urged residents to evacuate south via Al-Rashid road for their safety.
According to Israeli security estimates, more than 350,000 Palestinians — over 40% of Gaza City’s population — had fled the area by Monday evening.
Officials expect further mass displacement as the ground maneuver progresses.
Sources told CNN and the Wall Street Journal that Israeli troops have already entered the city, with the initial phase described as “deliberate” and “staged.”
Overnight, heavy bombardment targeted several neighborhoods, including Sheikh Radwan, Al-Karama and Tel Al-Hawa, while residents reported Israeli tanks moving along Al-Jalaa Street in central Gaza.
What to Expect After Israel Ground Operation in Gaza
Analysts anticipate intensified house-to-house fighting, continued displacement toward southern Gaza, and a rise in humanitarian needs.
Israel is likely to tighten its cordon around the city, seeking to cut off Hamas’ command nodes and tunnel networks.
Humanitarian agencies warn of a looming crisis as fuel, water and medical supplies dwindle.
Diplomatic pressure from regional and international actors may grow in parallel, but given the stated objectives of both sides, a swift de-escalation appears unlikely.
The next few days may therefore witness heavier clashes and greater civilian hardship before any talks of a pause or corridor gain traction.
Source: Sky News
