Hamas says Israel stepping up incursions into Gaza City

Israeli forces have stepped up military activities in Gaza City, a move Hamas officials describe as an aggressive escalation following Israel’s approval of a framework for a new offensive in the territory.

Ismail Al-Thawabta, who heads the Hamas government media office in Gaza, told AFP that the “Israeli occupation forces continue to carry out aggressive incursions” across the city. He said these actions mark a “dangerous escalation” aimed at reshaping the situation on the ground through force.

Concerns Over Civilian Impact

According to Al-Thawabta, the current military push is part of what he termed a “scorched earth policy” — a campaign that results in widespread destruction of civilian infrastructure and property. He warned that this strategy not only devastates communities but also risks establishing a permanent state of displacement and instability in Gaza.

The comments come amid heightened tensions and renewed hostilities in the region, with both sides trading accusations over responsibility for the escalation. Military analysts note that Israel’s recent operational approvals signal a potential shift toward more intensive urban combat in Gaza, a scenario that historically carries severe humanitarian consequences for civilians trapped in the conflict zone.