The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) continued ground operations in Gaza City between 12:32 PM and 12:47 PM UTC on September 16th, 2025, while Israeli security forces investigated an "impromptu" rocket discovered last week in Na'ama village, in the Benjamin region of Israel. The rocket, found without a warhead or explosives, is being investigated by UAE terrorists, according to an IDF spokesman. During this 15-minute reporting window, IDF ground forces were documented near the destroyed Annan Mosque in northwestern Gaza City, with tanks reported within the city. This activity follows reports from earlier in the day of the IDF's expanded ground operation, Operation "Gideon's Chariots," which commenced around 7:47 AM UTC. Planet Labs imagery from September 14th indicates that Gazans displaced by the operation have set up tents in Deir al-Balah and near Khan Yunis' Hamad Town, though none have relocated south of Mawasi or significantly into Rafah. The IDF spokesman stated that the rocket found in Na'ama is not the first such discovery in Judea and Samaria, and security forces are working to confiscate and destroy these devices and related workshops. Earlier today, Defense Minister Israel Katz reiterated a stern stance, stating that "Gaza will be destroyed" if Hamas does not release hostages. The Palestinian Ministry of Health reported 428 deaths from famine and malnutrition in Gaza as of September 16th, 2025, including 146 children, and Egypt is establishing tent camps in Deir al-Balah for displaced individuals.
