Israel Starts First Phase of Planned Gaza City Assault

Israel’s military has begun the initial phase of a planned assault on Gaza City, a spokesperson said on 20 August. The move follows a clash earlier in the day with Hamas forces, according to multiple statements carried by local and international media outlets. An Israeli military official earlier told Sky News Arabia that the full operational plan is expected to be finalised within the coming days. The spokesperson did not provide details on troop numbers or specific objectives for the current stage, but signalled that further phases of the operation will follow once planning is complete.