Palestinians report Israeli special forces in Gaza City amid intense strikes and clashes

On Monday morning, Palestinians reported unusual Israeli military activity in Gaza City, involving special forces, heavy gunfire, and over 18 airstrikes. Four individuals reportedly lost their lives, and several more were injured. According to Palestinian sources, Israeli special forces infiltrated an area in western Gaza City housing villas, where continuous explosions were heard near the American Hospital.

Saudi news outlet Al-Hadath stated that the violence erupted due to a failed militia abduction attempt involving a local figure allied with Israel. Israeli aerial forces reportedly intervened after the plan was discovered. The majority of the conflict unfolded in the Al-Katiba area, a significant public space in western Gaza City, hosting numerous demonstrations, rallies, prayers, and political gatherings over the years.

Footage and eyewitness accounts from the region described numerous explosions interspersed with intense firefights. The United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) advised its employees in the vicinity to stay away, urging them to avoid movement in the Al-Katiba area due to the dangerous situation. UNRWA personnel were advised to exercise heightened caution and contact the operations room for any inquiries.

The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) had not yet commented on the Palestinian reports or Al-Hadath's account of the alleged abduction attempt.