The Israeli Air Force has struck over 500 targets in Gaza City this week in five major waves, as part of preparations for an upcoming ground offensive against Hamas. The strikes, which began three days ago, have targeted neighborhoods including Daraj, Tuffah, and Sheikh Radwan, with recent expansions to the Shati camp and other areas in Sheikh Radwan. The military stated that high-rise towers used by Hamas for surveillance, sniper posts, weapon storage, and tunnels have been destroyed. The IDF issued warnings to Palestinian civilians in the affected areas ahead of the strikes. This intensified aerial campaign is in preparation for a significant ground operation against Hamas in Gaza City. The initial waves of strikes focused on key residential and operational areas within the city. The military reported that several high-rise buildings, which they claim were utilized by Hamas for military purposes, have been demolished. These purposes included surveillance, housing sniper positions, storing weapons, and as access points to underground tunnel systems. Earlier this week, President Donald Trump commented that some of the 20 hostages may have died. Separately, on September 12th, a stabbing incident occurred at a hotel in Gush Etzion where a worker allegedly attacked two guests; the suspect and three others were arrested. The motive is under investigation, with preliminary details suggesting a fear of kidnapping. In Tulkarem, the Israel Defense Forces detained dozens of Palestinian men on September 11th following an explosive device attack near the Nitzanei Oz Crossing that injured two soldiers, an attack claimed by Palestinian Islamic Jihad.
