Israeli tanks had pushed into the outskirts of Gaza City but had to withdraw following intense clashes with Palestinian forces. The head of the Hamas government office in Gaza, Salama Maarouf, stated that there was no substantial ground advance into residential neighborhoods in Gaza. Instead, he described the Israeli action as a limited incursion involving a few tanks and a bulldozer on Salah al-Din Street.
During this operation, the Israeli vehicles reportedly targeted civilian cars and damaged the street. However, Palestinian resistance forces managed to force them to retreat, and normal civilian movement resumed on the road.
Prior to this incursion, Israeli troops, supported by tanks, had been conducting airstrikes and artillery strikes in northern Gaza, leading to international calls for the protection of civilians. The strikes had also targeted areas near Gaza City’s Al-Shifa and Al-Quds hospitals. Meanwhile, Hamas fighters clashed with Israeli forces along the border east of Khan Younis.
The Israeli government had previously ordered additional ground incursions along Gaza’s eastern border and released images of tanks on the western coast, suggesting an attempt to encircle the city. Subsequently, Gaza experienced a prolonged bombardment.
A significant telecommunications blackout had been in place, making communication with Palestinians difficult. While this blackout was partially eased on Sunday, it had severely hampered rescue operations for those affected by Israeli attacks.
Additionally, Israeli tanks were reported to have entered Gaza City’s edge, cutting off a crucial road that connected the northern and southern parts of Gaza. Witnesses observed tanks in the Zaytun district, and residents reported that they were firing at any vehicles trying to use the road.
The moment Israeli tanks arrived on Salah al-Din Street in central Gaza. The civilian driver of the car was surprised by its presence. A Palestinian car was bombed with artillery😳🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🤫😭😭 pic.twitter.com/hOrz1II6n7
— Oday Mohammed (@Odaymohm) October 30, 2023
