Israel initiated heavy bombing in Gaza City on Tuesday, as reported by witnesses to AFP. This intensified military action followed US Secretary of State Marco Rubio’s visit to Jerusalem on Monday, where he publicly backed Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahuโs new offensive. The stated goal of this offensive is the eradication of Hamas, the group whose unprecedented October 7, 2023, attack on Israel triggered the current Gaza war. The sustained Gaza City bombing underscores the ongoing military operations in the devastated Palestinian territory.
During his visit, Secretary Rubio affirmed robust US support for Israelโs military efforts, stating Israel could โcount on our unwavering support.โ Rubioโs stance showed no divergence from Prime Minister Netanyahuโs position. He characterized Hamas as โbarbaric animalsโ and expressed a dim view of Qatari-brokered negotiations aimed at achieving a ceasefire. This strong declaration of support came despite earlier admonishments from US President Donald Trump, who a week prior had criticized Israel for conducting air strikes against Hamas leaders located in US partner Qatar.
Hours after Rubio’s statements, witnesses described a scene of โheavy, relentless bombing on Gaza City.โ The bombardment reportedly leveled homes and left numerous individuals trapped beneath the rubble, with residents stating they could hear screams. Mahmud Bassal, a spokesman for the Gaza civil defense agency, confirmed on Tuesday that
