Israel Destroys Over 190,000 Buildings in Gaza City Bombing Campaign

Since late 2023, Israel has engaged in an intense bombing campaign against Gaza City, resulting in unprecedented destruction that has damaged or destroyed over three-fifths of buildings, surpassing devastation seen in other recent conflicts such as Mariupol and Aleppo. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has publicly declared the targeting of high-rise towers, claiming these actions are part of an effort to cleanse Gaza City of nearly one million Palestinians, despite international criticism and accusations of war crimes. The Israeli military's use of terms like "humanitarian zones" in bombed areas has been widely condemned as deceptive by Gaza authorities and observers. This military offensive has led to widespread displacement, with many residents receiving little warning before airstrikes flatten residential towers. The humanitarian crisis has prompted protest resignations from U.S. officials who criticize the Biden administration's policies as enabling the catastrophe, highlighting the complex international political dynamics surrounding the conflict. Despite calls for ceasefires, Netanyahu has reportedly rejected proposals, continuing the assault with the aim of long-term occupation of the Gaza Strip.