Israeli Forces Withdraw from Gaza City After Intense Offensive

Israeli forces have withdrawn from certain districts in Gaza City following a week-long offensive, resulting in significant casualties and destruction. Both sides continue to exchange heavy fire, complicating peace negotiations led by U.S.-backed mediators. The situation remains volatile as efforts to finalize a ceasefire are ongoing.

Israeli forces retreated from several districts in Gaza City overnight after a fierce, week-long offensive that left dozens dead and caused widespread destruction in the Palestinian enclave's largest urban area, according to residents and rescue services on Friday. This offensive comes 10 months into Israel's campaign to dismantle Hamas militants.

The Gaza Civil Emergency Service reported that teams had collected around 60 bodies of Palestinians killed by Israeli forces over the past week from areas including Tel Al-Hawa and the edges of the Sabra neighborhood in Gaza City. While tanks withdrew from some areas, Israeli snipers and tanks continued to control high ground at certain locations, warning residents not to return home.

Gaza Strip Civil Defense spokesperson Mahmoud Basal described the devastation, mentioning bodies scattered in the streets and entire families deceased within burned homes. The Israeli military stated its focus was on dismantling Hamas capabilities in Gaza City while adhering to international laws, unlike Hamas, which they accused of using civilians as shields.