Deadly Violence Escalates in Gaza and West Bank Amid Israeli Ground Preparations

At least 52 people have been killed in Gaza since dawn Wednesday, including 32 in Gaza City, as Israeli military operations intensify. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has warned that Israeli troops will soon enter Gaza City, urging residents to flee immediately to avoid being caught in the fighting.

The violence extends beyond Gaza. In occupied East Jerusalem, six people were killed and several others wounded in a shooting attack, which Israeli officials say was carried out by two Palestinians from the West Bank.

Police report that the perpetrators have been killed. The Israeli military has also confirmed the deaths of three of the four soldiers killed in Gaza, notifying their families. In Gaza City, Israeli forces destroyed the al-Salam Tower, a residential high-rise, with three missiles as part of efforts to dismantle remaining infrastructure and displace residents ahead of a ground offensive.

uch demolition attacks have become routine over the past week, following relentless bombing and shelling. Amid the escalation, reports have emerged of a U.S.-proposed deal intended to secure the release of all captives in Gaza and bring an end to the war.

According to Axios, the proposal includes a clause detailing the Israeli withdrawal from Gaza, which would be contingent on the new governing authority’s ability to maintain security. While Israel reportedly views this as acceptable, Hamas has described the clause as a “trap,” arguing it grants Israel veto power over the timing and structure of the post-war governance in Gaza.