Escalating Tensions: Israeli Strikes Intensify in Gaza

Israeli forces dropped leaflets in southern Gaza stating 'Hamas will no longer rule Gaza,' amidst ongoing military strikes that have caused significant casualties. In response to an attack planned by Hamas a year ago, tensions have escalated with leaflets urging the surrender of weapons and hostages.

Israeli aircraft disseminated leaflets over southern Gaza on Saturday, featuring an image of deceased Hamas chief Yahya Sinwar, coupled with the declaration that 'Hamas will no longer rule Gaza,' mirroring statements by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

Reports confirm that Israeli military operations have resulted in at least 35 deaths across the Gaza Strip. Leaflets found in Khan Younis echo a message from Netanyahu Thursday, subsequent to Sinwar's Wednesday demise in Rafah.

Israel's retaliatory measures follow the deadly October 7 attack, devised by Sinwar, which claimed 1,200 Israeli lives and resulted in hostages being taken to Gaza. Current conflicts have contributed to over 42,500 Palestinian fatalities, exacerbating humanitarian crises within the region.

(With inputs from agencies.)