Archive · 17 Sep 2025
Israel's Gaza City Offensive: Months of Fighting Ahead
Israel has started a ground attack in Gaza City, which could take a few months.
The Israeli military is trying to defeat Hamas, the group that controls the city.
They're using tanks, soldiers, and air strikes.
Israel's leaders say they will do whatever it takes to bring back the hostages.
Some officials believe Hamas has been weakened from prior attacks, the main goal is to end the war.
One minister said that the offensive aims to take control of the city, to destroy Hamas.
Israel launched a ground offensive in Gaza City on Tuesday.
The Israeli military estimates the operation could take several months.
IDF units are operating on the ground, supported by air and naval forces.
The return of hostages is a key objective for the IDF.
Israeli officials have warned Hamas against harming hostages.
- Who
- Israel and Hamas
- What
- Israel launched a ground offensive to occupy Gaza City, potentially taking several months.
- When
- Announced on Tuesday, September 16, 2025
- Where
- Gaza City
- Why
- Israel aims to defeat Hamas and secure the city
Hamas
Israeli Government
Military Action
Hamas
Unclear, but likely resistance to the offensive.
Israeli Government
Military operation to defeat Hamas and secure its objectives.
Civilian Impact
Hamas
Unknown, but likely impact will be similar to the previous situation.
Israeli Government
Acknowledges the cost to Hamas and the destruction of Gaza.
- Location
- Gaza City
- Military Action
- Ground offensive and airstrikes
- IDF Objective
- Defeat Hamas and secure the city
- Estimated Duration
- Several months
- IDF Divisions in Action
- Two armored and infantry divisions, plus additional support
- IDF Focus
- Return of hostages
Sources
Ahead of Gaza City ground offensive, families of hostages seek urgent meeting with IDF Chief
Israel launches ground incursion in Gaza City amid heavy airstrikes: Reports
Israel Sets Gaza "On Fire" As Top US Diplomat Warns "Savages Like Hamas"
Israel launches ground operation for control of Gaza City, over 300,000 flee the region
Israel Enters Gaza City's Centre In Fresh Ground Ops, Targets ‘Thousands’ Of Hamas Militants
Israel launches new ground offensive in Gaza City
Amid Israel's 'intense' offensive in Gaza, jailed Palestinians are to be kept without beds
‘Gaza is burning’: How Israel’s ground assault on Gaza City unfolds
Hamas Condemns 'Barbaric Zionist Escalation' As Israel Launches Ground Offensive In Gaza
‘The bombing has been insane’: Palestinians flee Israeli assault on Gaza City