Al-Ghafri Tower Destroyed in Gaza city as Netanyahu Addresses Isolation and Military Strength
Gaza City – The Al-Ghafri Tower, Gaza City’s highest building and a prominent landmark, was destroyed in a missile strike, broadcast live as part of ongoing coverage of the conflict. For a prolonged period, the live feed showed only the tower itself, with birds flying and sunlight visible, resembling any street in the Middle East.
The tower collapsed after a missile impact,filling the area with gray smoke. Footage then captured journalists covering their faces to avoid the dust.
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) claims the tower was used as a “surveillance center for Hamas.” palestinians identify it as a landmark, a location previously visited to view the sunset over the Mediterranean Sea, and a vantage point for journalists since october 7, but fundamentally a residential building.
The number of casualties resulting from the attack remains unclear, representing just one of many strikes within the last 24 hours that have been broadcast live.
While the Al-Ghafri Tower was reduced to rubble, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was several miles away in Jerusalem, meeting with U.S. Foreign minister Marco Rubio and hosting a delegation of American officials.
Netanyahu delivered a speech on Monday that prompted criticism from Israeli opposition politicians regarding his state of mind. He stated Israel must become a “super-sauce,” referencing a decline in its global military standing. He also asserted that Israel is becoming increasingly isolated due to its perceived influence on migration patterns in European countries and warned of threats beyond Iran, urging remembrance of Israel’s past responses.
However, it was a specific statement regarding priorities that drew further scrutiny. “Life goes before team,” Netanyahu said, appearing to prioritize Israeli life over adherence to international law.