JERUSALEM / GAZA CITY: Israel has intensified its assault on Gaza City, unleashing a wave of bombings that flattened at least 30 residential buildings and left thousands of civilians displaced. The fresh escalation coincided with the arrival of U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who began talks with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on the unfolding conflict.
Gaza’s health officials confirmed that at least 48 Palestinians were killed in the latest strikes, adding to the already staggering toll of civilian casualties. The bombardment involved airstrikes, tank fire, and naval shelling, leaving entire neighbourhoods in ruins. Gaza City, home to nearly a million people, has become the epicentre of destruction with many residents unable to heed evacuation orders due to the absence of safe havens or means of escape.
The Israeli military has declared its aim to seize control of Gaza City, branding it a final bastion of Hamas resistance. Evacuation warnings were issued, yet families remained trapped amid rubble, worsening humanitarian conditions by the hour. Reports highlight a grim reality: deaths caused not only by bombs but by hunger and malnutrition. According to Gaza’s health ministry, at least 422 people—including 145 children—have died from starvation-related causes as aid remains blocked.
Rubio’s high-profile visit comes against the backdrop of rising international criticism. The Doha airstrike on Hamas negotiators has already raised diplomatic tensions, and Washington now faces mounting pressure to rein in Israel’s offensive. U.S. officials suggested the visit would focus on issues such as hostage releases, humanitarian access, and a possible framework for Gaza’s reconstruction.
Humanitarian organisations are sounding alarms over the dire conditions. Food, medicine, and shelter remain scarce, and with bombardments showing no sign of easing, fears grow that Gaza is on the brink of a deeper catastrophe. Israel’s campaign, meanwhile, signals its resolve to pursue military objectives regardless of mounting civilian suffering.
This story has been reported by PakTribune. All rights reserved.