Israel Steps Up Gaza Bombardment Amid Warning of "Entire City Under Occupation

Israel Escalates Bombardment as Defence Minister Says 'Gaza is Burning' JERUSALEM (AP) — Israel has intensified its bombardment of Gaza City, with unconfirmed reports suggesting a ground offensive to occupy the entire city. The escalation came hours after Secretary of State Marco Rubio assured Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of unwavering US support. According to eyewitnesses and local journalists in Gaza, nearly constant Israeli airstrikes have been pounding the city since Monday night. Defence Minister Israel Katz wrote on X early Tuesday morning: "Gaza is burning" and threatened that Israel "will not relent and we will not go back - until the completion of the mission." The intensification of military action has resulted in rising numbers of deaths and injuries, according to Palestinian officials. Thousands of people are fleeing central Gaza, where Israeli strikes have been reported. The long-threatened full-scale ground invasion of Gaza City, home to hundreds of thousands of people, appears imminent. The US State Department's assurance of support for Israel comes as the international community grapples with the escalating conflict. "This is a critical moment in the history of our relationship," Secretary Rubio said during his visit to Jerusalem on Monday. "The United States stands firmly behind Israel and its right to defend itself." In response, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu expressed gratitude for US backing: "We appreciate the unwavering support of our great friend, the United States." However, Palestinian officials have condemned the escalating violence, calling it a "war crime." Saeb Erekat, a senior Palestinian official, stated: "The international community must intervene to stop this aggression and hold Israel accountable for its actions." As the situation continues to unfold, the humanitarian impact is becoming increasingly dire. The United Nations has warned of a potential humanitarian crisis in Gaza, where basic necessities such as food, water, and medical supplies are scarce. With reports suggesting a ground invasion imminent, the international community remains on high alert, waiting for further developments in this escalating conflict. *Reporting by Bbc.*