Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu — wanted by the International Criminal Court — said that Israeli forces are preparing to position themselves in Gaza City in order to carry out a ground operation.
Netanyahu addressed the residents of Gaza, saying: “Leave now,” just hours after Israel announced the expansion of its airstrikes on the Strip.
He continued: “I say to the residents of Gaza, listen to me carefully: we warned you, so leave the city now!”
He added that just a few days ago he promised to bring down residential towers in Gaza, and that is exactly what the army is doing after flattening all infrastructure and directing its forces to do so at additional sites.
Widespread destruction
Earlier on Monday, Defense Minister Yisrael Katz threatened to launch what he described as a “thundering hurricane” on Gaza, stressing that Hamas must “release the captives and lay down its arms or face the complete destruction of the Strip.” He confirmed that the army continues to intensify its ground and air operations deep inside the city.
The Israeli Broadcasting Authority reported that Chief of Staff Herzi Halevi decided to hold a situation assessment meeting with General Staff commanders to discuss the impact of the ongoing war on army personnel.
The authority added that the meeting will include an evaluation of increasing social and economic tensions and the morale of society in light of the continued war.
Since October 7, 2023, Israel — with American support — has been committing genocide in Gaza, involving killing, starvation, destruction, and forced displacement, while ignoring all international appeals and orders issued by the International Court of Justice in this regard.
