The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) announced the launch of a large-scale operation to dismantle Hamas infrastructure in Gaza City, declaring the area a “dangerous combat zone.”
IDF spokesman Col. Avichay Adraee urged residents to evacuate immediately toward designated humanitarian zones in southern Gaza. According to IDF estimates, more than 350,000 Palestinians—about 40% of the city’s population—have already fled.
“Remaining in Gaza City puts lives at risk,” Adraee warned.
The offensive marks a new phase in Israel’s campaign to eliminate Hamas, which has used Gaza’s dense civilian areas to shield its fighters and weapons. Israel says it aims to target command centers, tunnels, and rocket-launching sites embedded within neighborhoods.
The IDF maintains that evacuation corridors and humanitarian areas are part of its efforts to minimize civilian harm while dismantling Hamas’ military infrastructure.
