Israel-Gaza Conflict Escalates: Intense Strikes and Rockets Fired, Updates on Heavy Bombardment and Explosions

Israel launched intense strikes on the northern Gaza Strip, which Hamas responded to by firing rockets at Israel. The Israeli military stated that they had significantly increased their strikes, while Hamas accused Israel of cutting off communication and internet access in Gaza. Rocket warning sirens sounded in several Israeli cities, including Tel Aviv. The UN chief called for a humanitarian ceasefire due to the dire situation in Gaza, and the Israeli army accused Hamas of using hospitals for military purposes, a claim that Hamas denied.