Israel Destroys Over 240 Residential Buildings in Gaza
Ismail al-Thawabta, Director General of the Gaza Media Office, told Anadolu Agency that the surge in targeted strikes on civilian homes reflects what he called Israel's 'scorched-earth policy' — one aimed at forcing Palestinians from their homes, devastating their livelihoods, and creating widespread fear and trauma.
'This criminal behavior signals a calculated intent to escalate genocide and enforce the forced displacement of unarmed civilians,' al-Thawabta said, noting that the demolished units sheltered entire families, including children and the elderly, with no military presence in the vicinity — contrary to Israeli claims.
He described the attacks as part of a broader message from Israel: 'Surrender or face total annihilation.' But he emphasized that such tactics would fail. 'Our people, who have withstood decades of occupation, will not be broken by bulldozers or bombs,' he said.
Al-Thawabta called on the international community to urgently intervene to stop what he referred to as 'this ongoing bloody madness' and protect civilians facing repeated assaults.
Since launching its military campaign in October 2023, Israel has killed more than 54,400 Palestinians, most of them women and children, according to local health authorities. Aid groups have repeatedly warned of famine conditions across the enclave, where humanitarian access remains critically limited.
Israel has rejected calls for a ceasefire despite mounting international pressure, including from the United Nations and humanitarian organizations.
Last November, the International Criminal Court issued arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant on charges of war crimes and crimes against humanity in Gaza.
Israel is also currently facing a genocide case at the International Court of Justice, further heightening global scrutiny of its military conduct in the besieged territory.
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