Israel keeps up military pressure on Gaza City ahead of planned offensive – Middle East crisis live

<p>Hamas says Israel’s plans to attack Gaza City show ‘blatant disregard’ for efforts to broker a ceasefire and hostage deal</p><p>Iran was seeking to reassert an image of strength on Thursday after suffering heavy losses, when Israel largely destroyed Iran’s air defences during the war and much of its stockpile of ballistic weapons is believed to have been damaged by Israeli strikes.</p><p>The Iranian Defence Ministry said in a statement on Thursday: “Any new adventure by the enemy will be faced with a strong slap.”</p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/live/2025/aug/21/israel-gaza-city-middle-east-palestinians-latest-live-news-updates">Continue reading...</a>