Palestinian residents reported heavy strikes Tuesday across Gaza City and Israel’s defense minister said that “Gaza is burning” as a new Israeli ground offensive targeted the city.

Airstrikes have pounded Gaza City for some time in the lead-up to the operation, knocking down towers in the city.

Israeli strikes in Gaza City killed at least 69 Palestinians, according to hospitals in the territory.

“It was a heavy night,” said Radwan Hayder, a Gaza City resident sheltering near the hospital.

Here's the latest:

Families of hostages implore Netanyahu to halt the operation

Families of the hostages still being held in Gaza gathered outside Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s residence overnight, begging him to stop the offensive.

Israel believes around 20 of the hostages are alive. Hamas

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