More than 80 Palestinians were killed by Israeli fire across the Gaza Strip on Wednesday, with hospitals in Gaza City reporting that the majority of casualties occurred in the city itself. Women and children were part of those confirmed dead after a strike hit a building and tents sheltering displaced families near Firas market.
The Israeli military claimed that it targeted two Hamas fighters and disputed the casualty figures presented by local hospitals. Meanwhile, Israeli ground forces continue their advancement into Gaza City, which is regarded as Hamas's last stronghold.
As the military operation escalates, Israel's objective remains the release of hostages held by Hamas and achieving the group's decisive defeat. Hundreds of thousands have been forced to flee through Gaza's urban center amid dire humanitarian conditions, as the region grapples with a confirmed famine.
In related developments, U.S. special envoy Steve Witkoff stated that President Donald Trump proposed a '21-point plan for peace' to Arab leaders during the UN General Assembly, aimed at addressing concerns from both Israel and neighboring states.
Amid continued airstrikes, hospitals in Gaza City reported an influx of casualties. Eyewitness reports highlighted the devastating impacts of strikes on civilian areas, with victims including entire families, prompting local outcry and further complicating the humanitarian crisis.
The situation in Gaza remains precarious, with warnings of permanent displacement due to ongoing Israeli tactics that appear designed to instill fear among civilians. As of now, the conflict has resulted in at least 65,419 deaths in Gaza since October 2023, following a large-scale attack by Hamas on southern Israel.
