Israeli troops advanced deeper into Gaza City on Wednesday, the second day of a ground offensive that has drawn widespread international condemnation, as thousands of Palestinians fled the area.

Israel’s military said air and artillery strikes hit the city more than 150 times in recent days, destroying high-rise towers in densely populated neighborhoods sheltering displaced residents. Overnight strikes killed at least 16 people, including women and children, hospital officials reported. Since the war began on Oct. 7, 2023, Gaza health authorities say nearly 65,000 Palestinians have been killed.

A new evacuation corridor south of Gaza City opened for two days on Wednesday, allowing some residents to leave, though many in northern Gaza remain cut off after Israeli strikes damaged internet and phone lines. Palestinian health officials reported attacks on hospitals, including Rantisi Children’s Hospital, forcing patients and staff to evacuate.

Aid organizations and Qatar sharply condemned the offensive. A coalition of over 20 international aid groups urged governments to take decisive action, citing the UN commission’s finding of genocide. Qatar’s foreign ministry called the operation “an extension of the war of genocide” against Palestinians.

Israeli forces aim to seize control of Gaza City and most of the Strip. Military officials estimate 2,000–3,000 Hamas fighters remain in the city, using tunnels and conducting guerrilla-style attacks.

The conflict began when Hamas militants attacked southern Israel in October 2023, killing about 1,200 people and taking 251 hostages, with fewer than half believed alive. The ongoing war has left hundreds of thousands displaced, widespread destruction, and mounting humanitarian crises across the enclave.