Gaza City Under Siege: Israel Targets Second High-Rise in Intensifying Assault

The Sussi Tower in Gaza City has been destroyed, marking the second high-rise hit by the Israeli military in two days. This follows the earlier collapse of the Mushtaha Tower. Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz shared footage of the Sussi Tower falling on social media, emphasizing ongoing military actions.

The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) claim the Sussi Tower was used by Hamas, a statement the group denies. Casualty reports after the strikes remain unclear. Prior to the attacks, Israel dropped leaflets urging Palestinians to move to what they call a humanitarian zone in southern Gaza.

IDF spokesperson Avichay Adraee called on residents to join those relocating to al-Mawasi, a region between Khan Younis and the coast. The IDF promises medical care and food in this zone. However, the UN reports that the camps in al-Mawasi are dangerously overcrowded and that southern hospitals are overwhelmed. Tragically, earlier this week, five children died while waiting in line for water, reportedly due to an Israeli drone strike, which the IDF is currently reviewing.

The destruction of the Sussi Tower adds to the devastation in Gaza City. Just a day before, the Mushtaha Tower collapsed following an explosion at its base. The IDF stated they took precautions to reduce civilian harm, including giving advance warnings and using precise weapons. Yet, displaced families had sought safety in the Mushtaha Tower, leading local officials to accuse Israel of forcing people from their homes.

Satellite imagery indicates extensive damage across several neighborhoods in Gaza. These high-rises had represented hope for the future—a vision tied to Palestinian aspirations for independence following the Oslo Accords in 1993. This agreement allowed many Palestinians to return to Gaza, sparking a construction boom as residents sought to accommodate the growing population.

Currently, the situation in Gaza is dire. According to UN estimates, nearly one million people remain in Gaza City, which is now facing famine. Tensions remain high after the Israeli military launched operations in response to a Hamas attack on southern Israel on October 7, which led to significant casualties. As of now, over 63,000 people have died in the ongoing conflict, according to Gaza’s health ministry.

This escalation highlights the tragic human cost of the conflict. As events unfold, the call for humanitarian aid and support grows louder across social media platforms, reflecting widespread concern and solidarity for the affected families in Gaza.

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