Israel’s Push Into Gaza City Sparks Global Concern as Civilian Toll Rises

Israel’s expanded military operation to seize full control of Gaza City has drawn growing international concern and deepened fears among the estimated one million residents still in the area.

Despite global calls for a ceasefire, fighting intensified on Tuesday. At least 20 Palestinians were killed by Israeli gunfire, tank shelling, and airstrikes, according to Gaza health officials.

Israeli tanks reportedly completed their advance into the Zeitoun neighborhood, located on the eastern edge of Gaza City. The military continued to target nearby areas, including the Sabra district, where two women and a man were killed, medics said.

Local health authorities also reported that dozens of civilians were trapped in their homes due to ongoing shelling. The Israeli military stated it was investigating those reports.

A spokesperson for Hamas, Awad Labde, said there had been no “positive response” from Israel regarding efforts to de-escalate.

The offensive has sparked alarm among humanitarian groups and foreign governments, who warn of worsening conditions for civilians caught in the crossfire as fighting enters densely populated urban areas.