Intense Israeli Strikes and Clashes Rock Gaza Amid Reports of Commando Operation

A series of Israeli strikes has impacted areas west of Gaza city in the northern part of the Palestinian territory amid conflicting reports regarding a commando operation targeting a Hamas unit.

Witnesses reported to The National on Tuesday that at least 15 Israeli air strikes occurred in the Al Katiba area, while drones simultaneously dropped explosives.

Two vehicles were targeted on nearby streets, prompting Palestinian medics to attempt the recovery of bodies from inside the two cars.

As the violence unfolded, several families and civilians found themselves trapped in homes and shops.

Palestinian media indicated that an Israeli commando unit attempted to deploy for an operation against a Hamas unit before active clashes erupted between the two sides.

Meanwhile, other media outlets reported that the violence involved fighting between Hamas fighters and Israeli-linked local militiamen.