A significant escalation occurred in the Gaza Strip on Tuesday as Israeli airstrikes targeted areas in southern Gaza, including tents of displaced families outside a school in Abassan east of Khan Yunis, killing at least 29 people, predominantly women and children. Meanwhile, Israeli tanks advanced into Gaza City, shelling urban neighborhoods and displacing residents amid increased military activity.
The Israeli military has stated it is investigating civilian casualties, reporting that the strikes were aimed at a Hamas fighter involved in a recent attack on Israel. This escalation has come despite ongoing ceasefire discussions, with Hamas warning that continued Israeli operations could jeopardize peace efforts.
In Gaza City, the military operations have intensified, with districts in the east and west of the city receiving evacuation orders. The local population reports severe disruption and danger due to ongoing shelling and street combat, with social media footage showing residents fleeing with their belongings. The Palestinian Red Crescent has reported an inability to respond to humanitarian distress calls due to the severity of the situation.