Payam Javan: Israel has launched the main stage of its long-anticipated ground offensive in Gaza City, intensifying air and artillery strikes in what residents described as the most severe bombardment in two years of conflict. Defense Minister Israel Katz declared “Gaza is burning” as Israeli ground troops advanced toward the city center, aiming to confront an estimated 3,000 Hamas fighters. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) said it would increase troop numbers in the coming days to secure conditions for the release of hostages and the defeat of Hamas.

As the fighting escalated, the IDF renewed calls for civilians to evacuate. Thousands of Palestinians were seen fleeing south and west on foot, in vehicles, and in carts, while the military estimated around 350,000 people had already left Gaza City, leaving nearly twice that number still inside. The humanitarian crisis has deepened amid the offensive, with large-scale displacement continuing under heavy bombardment.

The military push comes as U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio signaled support for Israel’s hard line, backing its rejection of ceasefire talks and calling for Hamas to disarm and release hostages unconditionally. However, some Israeli commanders have raised concerns that the offensive could endanger hostages still in Gaza and pose major risks to troops. Families of captives protested outside Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s residence, demanding a deal to save their relatives. According to Israeli officials, Hamas still holds 48 hostages, with 20 believed to be alive.