Israel Mobilizes Troops for Gaza Advance Amidst Intense Airstrikes
Israel Prepares for Gaza Offensive
The Israeli military announced on Saturday that it has begun mobilizing its forces for a deeper incursion into Gaza, aiming to capture more territory and displace more civilians. This comes after a night of intense airstrikes across Gaza, which hospitals reported left over 140 people dead on Friday alone. Many casualties are still feared to be trapped under rubble.
Mounting Casualties and Diplomatic Efforts
The health ministry in Gaza reported the staggering death toll from Friday’s airstrikes, highlighting the escalating humanitarian crisis. Meanwhile, despite weeks of threats from Israeli leaders, there were no immediate signs of a large-scale ground invasion on Saturday.
Israeli and Hamas negotiators are reportedly engaged in indirect cease-fire talks in Qatar, with mediators striving to prevent the anticipated Israeli escalation.
Limited Ground Advance Confirmed
An anonymous Israeli military official, speaking on the condition of anonymity to discuss operational details, confirmed that some ground troops have begun advancing in Gaza. However, they declined to disclose the exact location, timing, or extent of the advance.
