Smoke rises after an explosion in Gaza, as seen from the Israeli side of the border, September 1, 2025. REUTERS/Amir Cohen

Supporting the advance, Israeli warplanes struck multiple targets in Gaza’s outskirts, while ground forces detonated vehicles suspected of carrying explosives.

Some medical sources reported at least 19 deaths and hundreds wounded in the latest attacks.

The escalation came just hours after an emergency security cabinet meeting chaired by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Discussions reportedly focused on controlling Gaza City and possible annexation of parts of the West Bank. The meeting did not consider a ceasefire and hostage exchange proposal mediated by Egypt and Qatar, which Hamas had already accepted.