Gaza City – Israel launched intense air and artillery strikes on Gaza City late Tuesday after its leadership gave the green light for an expanded offensive, according to regional reports.

Residents described heavy bombardment in multiple neighborhoods, with plumes of smoke rising across the city as ambulances rushed the wounded to overcrowded hospitals. The strikes followed Israel’s announcement of a new phase in its military campaign, which it says targets Hamas infrastructure.

Palestinian health authorities reported new casualties, warning that the humanitarian situation is worsening amid shortages of fuel, medical supplies, and safe shelter.

The escalation comes as international calls for restraint intensify, with the United Nations and humanitarian groups urging both sides to avoid further civilian suffering.