Israel has officially begun a full-scale ground invasion to take control of Gaza City. The announcement came on Tuesday, marking a major escalation in the ongoing conflict.

According to Israeli media, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Israel had “launched a powerful operation in Gaza City” and described it as a “decisive” turning point in the war against Hamas. The Israeli military, in a separate statement issued in Arabic, confirmed that its forces had “begun destroying Hamas infrastructure in Gaza City.”

Palestinians Ordered to Leave Gaza City

The Israeli military has urged nearly one million Palestinians sheltering in Gaza City to evacuate immediately. Officials reported that about 350,000 people have already fled, with 250,000 leaving in just the past few days as airstrikes intensified.

The exodus comes after weeks of relentless bombardment, which severely damaged infrastructure and increased civilian casualties. Many families are struggling to find safe places amid ongoing air and ground attacks.

Humanitarian Crisis Worsens

The invasion has raised fears of a deepening humanitarian disaster. Gaza is already facing acute shortages of food, water, and medical supplies. A United Nations-backed organization recently declared a famine in Gaza City.

Independent observers warn that a prolonged ground offensive could worsen conditions dramatically, leaving civilians with little access to essential resources. Families of hostages held by Hamas have also voiced concern, saying the invasion puts their loved ones in greater danger.

Details of the Ground Invasion

Although the announcement came on Tuesday, The Jerusalem Post reported that the actual invasion began late Monday night.

Around 10 p.m., Israel’s 162nd and 98th Divisions entered Gaza City, securing large sections in the heart of the city. Military sources revealed that the operation could last several months, though the exact timeline remains uncertain.

The Israeli military reportedly does not have a complete understanding of Hamas’ current strength. Estimates suggest Hamas has between 2,000 and 2,500 well-trained combat fighters ready for battle. However, they may also call on tens of thousands of additional fighters, many of whom are younger and less experienced.

Strategic Goals and Challenges

Netanyahu and his government argue that this offensive is essential to achieve the war’s goals and dismantle Hamas. However, analysts point out that urban warfare in Gaza City poses immense challenges for Israeli forces.

The presence of civilians, hostages, and underground Hamas tunnels makes the mission highly complex. With each passing day, the risk to civilians and soldiers grows, increasing international pressure on Israel to limit civilian harm.