The Israeli military has officially declared Gaza City a “dangerous combat zone,” terminating previously established humanitarian pauses that had permitted limited food deliveries into the famine-stricken area. Military authorities announced the change would take immediate effect, citing operational directives from political leadership.
This declaration coincides with intensified aerial and ground operations around Gaza’s largest urban center. Reports indicate sustained bombardments over recent days, with armored units now positioned on the city’s periphery.
Approximately one million Palestinian civilians remain trapped within the combat zone, many too elderly or infirm to evacuate. The area was previously declared to be experiencing famine conditions by United Nations-backed food security monitors.
In related diplomatic developments, the United States has denied entry visas to multiple Palestinian officials ahead of next month’s United Nations General Assembly session. The restrictions reportedly affect members of the Palestine Liberation Organization and Palestinian Authority, potentially preventing President Mahmoud Abbas from addressing the international body.
Meanwhile, Israeli forces conducted precision airstrikes in Yemen’s capital, targeting senior Houthi military leadership. Military officials confirmed operations against the group’s chief of staff and defense minister, though outcomes remain under assessment.
The conflict’s human toll continues to mount, with Gaza health authorities reporting over 63,000 fatalities since hostilities began. Recent figures indicate 59 deaths within the past 24 hours alone, including 23 individuals seeking humanitarian assistance. Medical officials also documented five new famine-related deaths, bringing the total starvation casualties to 322, including 121 children.
Humanitarian organizations warn the intensified military operations will exacerbate the already catastrophic food crisis. A joint statement from multiple UN agencies cautioned that “many people – especially sick and malnourished children, older people and people with disabilities – may be unable to evacuate” the combat zone.
The Israeli military also reported recovering the remains of hostage Ilan Weiss from Gaza, along with another individual whose identity remains undisclosed. Weiss had been held captive for 692 days following his abduction alongside family members.
As the humanitarian situation deteriorates, international diplomatic pressures continue. The United Kingdom has threatened formal recognition of Palestinian statehood next month unless Israel commits to ceasefire terms and demonstrates progress toward a two-state solution.
