An airstrike on Gaza City killed at least 12 people as the conflict entered a new phase with an Israeli offensive to rid the city of Hamas and free hostages.

JERUSALEM (AP) — Israel said Friday it will intensify its 22-month war with Hamas by taking over Gaza City, stirring fears for Palestinian civilians and Israeli hostages still held in Gaza, and renewing international pressure for an end to the conflict.

The Israeli army said Friday its forces are conducting operations on the outskirts of Gaza City in preparation for a wider assault to seize control of the enclave’s largest urban center, nearly ten months into the war.