The Israeli army began a fresh offensive Friday, declaring Gaza’s largest city an active combat zone.
Explosions and heavy smoke rose across the border in southern Israel as the assault intensified.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu vowed to dismantle Hamas’s network and prevent future attacks.
Israel claims Hamas still operates tunnels in Gaza City despite previous large-scale raids.
Casualties Mount as Aid Groups Resist Withdrawal
Gaza’s Health Ministry reported 63,025 deaths since the conflict began nearly 23 months ago.
Hospitals confirmed 59 deaths in the past 24 hours, many from malnutrition and bombardment.
Officials said 322 people, including 121 children, have died from famine-related causes.
Aid agencies and a church sheltering displaced families refused to leave Gaza City.
Residents Express Anguish Amid Renewed Fighting
Displaced families erected makeshift tents in central Gaza near the Nuseirat refugee camp.
Residents expressed despair, saying conditions had reduced them to worse than animals.
One Gaza City resident said massacres continued even during Israel’s declared humanitarian pauses.
Israel disputes Gaza’s casualty figures but offers no alternative count of the dead.
Army Expands Campaign Despite Global Condemnation
Israel called up tens of thousands of reservists after weeks of preparatory strikes in Gaza City.
Military officials said the army would escalate attacks until hostages return and Hamas collapses.
An Israeli spokesperson urged Palestinians to evacuate south, describing the move as inevitable.
International organisations condemned the escalation, but residents said outside pressure changed nothing.
