Israel has warned all residents of Gaza City to leave immediately in anticipation of a huge ground offensive.
The military's Arabic spokesman told as many as one million Palestinians living in Gaza's biggest urban centre to evacuate southwards. Remaining in the area is extremely dangerous, he said.
On Monday, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that air strikes destroying high-rise buildings in Gaza City were only the beginning of the main, intensive operation to capture what he described as Hamas's last important stronghold.
Hamas condemned the remarks as a public demonstration of a fully-fledged crime of forced displacement.
International criticism has mounted against Israel's plan to conquer Gaza City, with the UN warning that intensifying operations in an area already declared as experiencing famine may push civilians into even deeper catastrophe.
The IDF has conveyed a clear message: To all residents and those present in Gaza City... The IDF is determined to defeat Hamas and will operate in Gaza City with great determination. They added, For your safety, evacuate immediately.
Despite the order, many residents remain in Gaza City, facing logistical challenges and a lack of safe space to relocate. On the ground, there have been reports of heightened air and ground attacks. Families express uncertainty on where to go, with many holding out for real danger before making the decision to leave.
In a desperate plea, some residents share the physical and emotional toll of the ongoing conflict, highlighting issues of overcrowding and insufficient humanitarian aid in designated areas. The UN has called for increased aid access to stave off further humanitarian crises in the region.
