Satellite photos analyzed by The Associated Press reveal that Israeli tanks and armored vehicles have moved deeper into the Gaza Strip as part of an offensive against Gaza City. The images, taken on Saturday by Planet Labs PBC, show Israeli forces positioned just south of the marina in Gaza City, with more than thirty vehicles present on the beach.

The offensive comes as fighting continues between Israeli forces and Hamas militants in the coastal enclave. Israeli tanks and armored vehicles can be seen in the photos, stationed behind sand berms that likely offer some protection. The move marks a further advancement of the Israeli military into the Gaza Strip, as they aim to increase pressure on Hamas militants.

The conflict between Israel and Hamas erupted following tensions in Jerusalem, including clashes between Israeli police and Palestinian protesters at the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound, one of Islam’s holiest sites. The situation escalated with rocket attacks from Gaza and airstrikes carried out by the Israeli military. So far, hundreds of people have been killed, the majority of them Palestinian civilians.

As the offensive intensifies, concerns regarding the humanitarian situation in Gaza are growing. The densely populated enclave is already experiencing shortages of essential supplies, including food and medicine, while infrastructure, such as power and water networks, has been heavily damaged.

Efforts by international actors, including the United Nations, to broker a ceasefire have so far been unsuccessful. The situation remains tense and volatile, with the potential for further escalation.