The Israeli military on Friday began flattening high-rise buildings in Gaza City that it claims are used by Hamas for military purposes.

Why it matters: Friday's strikes mark the first major phase in Israel's new offensive to occupy Gaza City, which the government says is aimed at rooting out Hamas. The operation — backed by President Trump — is expected to escalate in the coming days.

Behind the scenes: Israel's top security chiefs — Israel Defense Forces (IDF) chief of staff Gen. Eyal Zamir, the heads of Mossad, Shin Bet and military intelligence — advised Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu against launching the operation. They warned it could: • Endanger the lives of Israeli hostages still held in Gaza. • Lead to heavy IDF casualties. • Fail to dismantle Hamas. • Force Israel i

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