The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have destroyed more than 3,600 buildings in Gaza City, including the enclave’s tallest high-rise, according to Palestine’s WAFA news agency.
The destruction comes amid Israel’s expanded ground offensive aimed at seizing full control of the city.
The offensive has levelled residential blocks and commercial complexes, displacing thousands of families. WAFA reported that around 13,000 multi-occupancy tents housing refugees from northern Gaza were also demolished.
Hours before Israel launched its large-scale assault, airstrikes obliterated the 20-storey al-Ghafri Tower, which was home to hundreds of residents as well as the offices of media outlets and private firms.
The campaign, approved by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in late August, marks Israel’s most sweeping ground incursion since the start of the war. Netanyahu had warned civilians to evacuate Gaza City ahead of the operation, which he described as essential to eliminating Hamas’ presence.
According to Axios, Washington has signaled support for Israel’s offensive. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio told Netanyahu that the Trump administration backed the ground operation but urged its rapid conclusion.
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