Israeli airstrikes continue to target several areas in Gaza City as the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) expands its ground operation, Operation "Gideon's Chariots," which commenced earlier today, September 16th, 2025, around 7:47 AM UTC. During this reporting window, a Libyan jihadist fighting with Hamas forces, identified as Hamza al-Warfali from Benghazi, was reported killed by Israeli forces. Separately, a United Nations commission of inquiry concluded that Israel has committed genocide in Gaza and that top Israeli officials, including Prime Minister Netanyahu, had incited these acts, according to Reuters. Defense Minister Israel Katz reiterated a stern stance earlier today, stating in Gaza that "Gaza will be destroyed" if Hamas does not release hostages, according to a Telegram post by Nitzan Shapira. The IDF reported the elimination of Nahmaba commander Mahmoud Said Tamar in Deir al-Balah earlier today between 7:32 AM and 7:46 AM UTC. In parallel developments, discussions were held regarding a request for Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's early adjournment from his trial, where he is scheduled to testify later today at 3 PM local time. The IDF stated that over 350,000 residents have evacuated Gaza City southward. The Palestinian Ministry of Health has reported 428 deaths from famine and malnutrition in Gaza as of September 16th, 2025, with 146 of those deaths being children. Egypt is establishing tent camps in Deir al-Balah for displaced individuals.
