16.09.2025 07:10
The U.S. press reported, citing Israeli officials, that Israeli military units have launched a ground operation to completely occupy Gaza. Explosions were heard throughout the night, and airstrikes intensified. So far, 14 people have lost their lives in the attacks, and there are concerns that the number may rise further.
The U.S.-based Axios newspaper reported, citing Israeli officials, that Israeli tanks have entered the city center of Gaza. It is noteworthy that the news came immediately after U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio's visit to Israel.
Israeli sources speaking to Axios stated that U.S. President Donald Trump has supported the operation but wants it to be completed as soon as possible. Meanwhile, Palestinians speaking to the French News Agency AFP expressed that intense bombardment has begun. Israeli media reported that explosions in Gaza were felt even in Tel Aviv.
14 PEOPLE HAVE DIED
In the air and ground attacks, many buildings have been destroyed, and it has been reported that 14 people have lost their lives so far. The number is expected to rise further.
HAMAS RESPONDS TO TRUMP
In a statement from Hamas, it was noted that U.S. President Donald Trump's claim that "hostages will be used as human shields" reflects the bias of Zionist propaganda, stating, "The fate of the hostages in the Gaza Strip is in the hands of the terrorist Netanyahu government. The systematic destruction targeting Gaza City and the fascist extermination campaign directly endanger the lives of the hostages."
KATZ: WE WILL NOT BACK DOWN
Israeli Defense Minister Yisrael Katz, in a statement regarding the attacks, said, "Gaza is burning. The Israeli army is striking the terrorist infrastructure with an iron fist, and our soldiers are heroically fighting to create the necessary conditions for the rescue of the hostages and the elimination of Hamas. We will not relax or back down until the mission is complete."
NETANYAHU HAD APPROVED THE OCCUPATION PLAN
On August 8, the Israeli government approved a plan for the gradual occupation of Gaza, proposed by Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu. Prior to the ground operation, Israeli forces targeted and destroyed many structures in Gaza, particularly high-rise buildings, on the grounds that they were used by Hamas.
STRONG REACTION FROM HOSTAGE FAMILIES
Following reports of intensified attacks in Gaza, a written statement was made by a coalition platform formed by relatives of Israeli captives.
The statement included the following remarks:
"The intense attacks that began this evening are causing deep concern. The 710th night in Gaza could be the last night for the surviving captives. It may also be the last opportunity to find and bury the bodies."
The statement also reminded that there are still many captives in Gaza, alleging that Netanyahu chose to sacrifice the hostages for political gain. It emphasized that Netanyahu is responsible for the lives of the hostages, and noted that the Israeli public will not forgive the sacrifice of soldiers and civilians in this manner.