Israel has officially begun a ground invasion of Gaza City, marking one of the most significant escalations in the ongoing conflict with Hamas.

The move was confirmed by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Tuesday, September 16, who said that the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) had launched operations inside the city.

Military officials estimate that more than 350,000 Palestinians—about 40% of Gaza City’s population—have already fled, with more evacuations expected as the fighting deepens.

The invasion began on the city’s outskirts with intense airstrikes and the demolition of several high-rise buildings. Palestinian media reported heavy bombardments in neighborhoods such as Sheikh Radwan, al-Karama, and Tel al-Hawa. Witnesses also described tanks rolling into central streets while artillery and helicopters struck targets across northern Gaza.

Reports claimed as many as 37 strikes in just 20 minutes, with blasts so powerful they were heard in Tel Aviv.

Hospitals including Al-Shifa and the Baptist Hospital were overwhelmed with dozens of injured civilians overnight, among them many children. Harrowing videos circulating online showed bloodied survivors and grieving families mourning loved ones.

Israel’s Defense Minister Israel Katz declared:

“Gaza is burning. The IDF strikes with an iron fist at terrorist infrastructure, and our soldiers fight with bravery to create the conditions for freeing the hostages and defeating Hamas. We will not relent until the mission is complete.”

Meanwhile, the United Nations has warned that the ground invasion could lead to massive forced displacement of civilians.

Families of hostages also protested outside Netanyahu’s residence in Jerusalem, accusing him of putting their loved ones at risk for political reasons. “This may be the last night in the lives of the hostages who are barely surviving,” said the Hostages’ Families Forum.

Within the military, debate continues. IDF Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Eyal Zamir cautioned that a full capture of Gaza City could result in high Israeli casualties and worsen the plight of hostages. But Netanyahu insisted that expanding ground operations would intensify pressure on Hamas and push closer to a decisive outcome.

As the offensive unfolds, the humanitarian toll continues to grow, with fears of even greater devastation in the days ahead.