Israel's ongoing offensive in Gaza escalated dramatically on Saturday, with a barrage of airstrikes on Gaza City resulting in the deaths of at least 32 people, including 12 children, according to medical reports from Shifa Hospital. The Israeli military claims the strikes targeted high-rise buildings allegedly housing Hamas surveillance equipment, and has intensified its attacks in recent days, destroying numerous structures. The army has ordered residents to evacuate Gaza City, describing it as Hamas's last stronghold, and urged remaining citizens to relocate south to a designated humanitarian zone.
One particularly devastating strike hit a home in the Sheikh Radwan neighborhood, killing an entire family of ten. Among the casualties is Mohammed Ramez Sultan, a player for the Al-Helal Sporting Club, and fourteen members of his family. The Israeli army has yet to comment on the specifics of these attacks.
Meanwhile, in Tel Aviv, relatives of Israeli hostages held by Hamas staged a protest, criticizing Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's approach to securing their release. Einav Zangauker, mother of hostage Matan Zangauker, condemned Israel's recent attempt to assassinate Hamas leaders in Qatar, deeming it a catastrophic failure that undermined efforts to bring her son and other hostages home.
The number of Palestinians fleeing Gaza City has surged in recent weeks, driven by the escalating violence and evacuation calls. However, many families remain trapped due to the high cost of relocation and the pervasive lack of trust in the safety of any location within the enclave. While the Israeli army claims over 250,000 people have left, the United Nations estimates a lower figure of approximately 100,000 between mid-August and mid-September.
The displacement of hundreds of thousands exacerbates an already dire humanitarian crisis. The UN and aid groups warn of overcrowded sites in southern Gaza, coupled with the financial barrier to relocation for many. Thousands of temporary shelters remain awaiting clearance to enter Gaza, further hindering relief efforts. The Gaza Health Ministry reported seven additional deaths from malnutrition in the past 24 hours, bringing the total to 420 since the start of the conflict, highlighting the devastating impact of the siege.
This intensified offensive comes days after Israel launched a strike targeting Hamas leaders in Qatar, potentially jeopardizing ongoing negotiations aimed at resolving the conflict. Families of the remaining 48 hostages, approximately 20 believed to be still alive, are pleading with Israel to end the offensive, fearing for the lives of their loved ones. This conflict, triggered by Hamas' October 7, 2023, incursion into southern Israel, has resulted in devastating losses on both sides, leaving a trail of destruction and displacement across the Gaza Strip.
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Originally published at: https://www.npr.org/2025/09/13/g-s1-88654/israel-gaza-hamas-hospital-32-dead
