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 that had destroyed high-rise buildings in Gaza City were only the beginning of the main, intensive operation aimed at capturing what he described as Hamas's last significant stronghold.
Hamas has condemned these remarks as a public demonstration of a fully-fledged crime of forced displacement.
Israel's plan to conquer Gaza City has also brought international criticism, with the UN warning that an escalated offensive will push civilians into an even deeper catastrophe.
The UN's humanitarian agencies have reported that many households are unable to evacuate due to high costs and a lack of safe options. Indirect ceasefire negotiations between Israel and Hamas have stalled, prompting Israel's military escalation.
Reports have emerged indicating that thousands are trying to flee, but many remain in Gaza City due to uncertainties about safe destinations. A mother, displaced multiple times by bombing, shared her feelings of despair and fear as she struggled with the ongoing violence.
The situation remains critical as the international community calls for restraint, the assurance of humanitarian aid, and the protection of civilian lives in this continuing conflict.
