Israel pounds Gaza City in preparation for planned offensive

Here is a 183-word summary of the news article: Israel has launched a series of airstrikes on Gaza City, killing at least 64 people in the past 24 hours, according to the Hamas-run health ministry in the territory. The attacks appear to be part of preparations for a planned military offensive by Israel. The escalation of violence follows weeks of rising tensions between Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas, which controls the Gaza Strip. The situation has deteriorated further after the recent clashes at the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound in Jerusalem. Both sides have traded rocket fire and airstrikes, with Israel saying it is targeting militant sites and infrastructure. However, the Palestinian health ministry reports that many of the casualties are civilians, including children. The international community has urged both parties to exercise restraint and avoid further escalation of the conflict. Efforts are underway to broker a ceasefire and find a diplomatic solution to the longstanding tensions in the region.