The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) has significantly expanded its ground operation within Gaza City, with tanks reported inside the city earlier this morning, September 16th, 2025, around 7:47 AM UTC. This escalation, part of Operation "Gideon's Chariots," aims to dismantle Hamas infrastructure and secure the release of hostages. The operation commenced with multiple divisions maneuvering within the city, following overnight deployments of over 20 autonomous explosive devices to accelerate civilian evacuation. Defense Minister Israel Katz reiterated a stern stance, stating in Gaza that "Gaza will be destroyed" if Hamas does not release hostages, according to a Telegram post by Nitzan Shapira. "All power should be acting and hurting the enemy to protect our soldiers," Katz added in remarks made at "Gaza Magna." In parallel, discussions are underway regarding a request for Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's early adjournment from his trial, where he is scheduled to testify later today. 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 the week prior to the ground offensive, the Israeli Air Force reportedly struck over 850 terror targets and hundreds of operatives in Gaza City. The IDF also 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. Separately, the New York Post has reportedly mocked individuals who wore Hamas-supportive pins to the Emmy ceremony, according to a post by Amit Segal, who titled his commentary "Useful infidels."
