Israeli forces killed at least 31 Palestinians and blew up more residential buildings in Gaza City yesterday. According to Gaza health authorities, Israel’s tanks pushed further into the densely populated city. Israel said its forces had expanded their operations in the Gaza City area over the past few days, killing militants and locating weapons. Witnesses said Israeli tanks were advancing towards the west through Tel Al-Hawa, a southeastern suburb.

This action comes after some of Israel’s Western allies announced that they will formally recognise a Palestinian state ahead of the annual leaders gathering at the U.N. General Assembly this week.