Palestinian media reported a series of heavy strikes on buildings in the northwestern part of Gaza City. According to Arab reports, the sounds of helicopter fire and artillery shelling were heard in the northern part of the city. At the same time, four people were reported killed in a strike on the Nuseirat refugee camp.
Arab sources said Palestinians have begun fleeing Gaza City in response to the attacks. Tank movements were also reported in the area.
In central Israel, residents reported powerful explosions caused by the strikes, with windows shattered in Netivot from the blast wave. Nir Vaknin, a resident of Sderot, said that throughout the evening massive explosions shook his home due to IDF operations. "The whole house shakes from the force of the blasts. On the one hand, we are glad to see the beginning of the conquest of Gaza City. On the other hand, we are deeply worried for the soldiers' safety and of course for the hostages, whose lives are hanging in the balance. I pray that Hamas will not execute them once they hear the tanks approaching."
The reports come as the IDF continue preparing for a ground maneuver to seize Gaza City. Three regular divisions are set to enter the city from different directions. The advance will be slow and phased, with the guiding principle being thoroughness and security over speed, avoiding shortcuts.
According to assessments, taking control of the city is expected to take two to three months, as reported by Israel Hayom. However, clearing the area of terrorists, weapons and infrastructure will take longer. The IDF hopes the maneuver will be halted by a hostage deal once the Hamas terrorist organization realizes it is on the verge of losing its stronghold in the city. For now, however, there is no certainty this will happen.
