Israel Escalates Gaza Strikes Rubio Backs
Israel Steps Up Strikes on Gaza, Katz Vows No Relent as Rubio Backs Offensive
Gaza City – Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz declared on Tuesday that Gaza was “on fire” as the military intensified its offensive, vowing that Israel “will not relent” until Hamas is defeated and hostages are freed.
“The IDF is striking terrorist infrastructure with an iron fist, and soldiers are fighting bravely to create the necessary conditions for the release of hostages and the defeat of Hamas,” Katz said. “We will not relent, and we will not back down until the mission is accomplished.”
Witnesses told AFP that Gaza City came under massive bombardment, with entire residential blocks destroyed and people trapped beneath the rubble. “There is heavy, relentless bombing on Gaza City, and the danger keeps increasing,” said resident Ahmed Ghazal.
Gaza civil defence spokesman Mahmud Bassal confirmed the continued strikes, saying casualties were mounting. “Bombing is still ongoing heavily across Gaza City, and the number of deaths and injuries continues to rise,” he said.
The escalation came as U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio visited the region. Speaking before departing for Qatar to push mediation efforts, Rubio endorsed Israel’s offensive while stressing the urgency of a possible deal.
“The Israelis have begun operations there. We think we have a very short window of time in which a deal can happen — not months, but days or maybe weeks,” Rubio told reporters.
He added that Washington’s preferred outcome would be a negotiated settlement leading to Hamas’s demilitarisation. “Sometimes when you’re dealing with a group of savages like Hamas, that’s not possible, but we hope it can happen,” Rubio said.
On Monday, Rubio met Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in Jerusalem, offering U.S. support for Israel’s campaign. Hours later, witnesses reported Gaza City was once again under heavy bombardment.
Mutib Khalid is a skilled content writer and digital marketer with a knack for crafting compelling narratives and optimizing digital strategies. Excel in creating engaging content that drives results and enhances online presence. Passionate about blending creativity with data-driven approaches, Mutib Khalid helps brands connect with their audience and achieve their goals.
