Israel Set to Take Control of Gaza City, Forcing Mass Evacuations

Tensions in the Gaza Strip have escalated dramatically as the Israeli military moves to occupy Gaza City, a development that is expected to displace tens of thousands of already vulnerable Palestinians. The operation comes amid a worsening humanitarian crisis, with large parts of the territory experiencing famine-like conditions due to ongoing conflict, restricted aid access, and the collapse of essential infrastructure.

According to Israeli officials, the decision to occupy the city was driven by the need to eliminate what they describe as remaining Hamas strongholds and to ensure national security. The military operation involves heavy ground forces supported by air surveillance and targeted strikes on key infrastructure points.

However, human rights organizations and aid agencies have expressed grave concern over the implications of the occupation. Gaza City is one of the most densely populated areas in the region, and the Israeli advancement is forcing tens of thousands of residents to flee—many of whom have already been displaced multiple times since the conflict began.

The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) reported that the food security situation in Gaza has reached critical levels. “Civilians are facing starvation, with children and elderly people most at risk,” said a spokesperson. “Now, with this mass displacement underway, humanitarian access is further restricted and the situation is spiraling out of control.”

Eyewitnesses describe scenes of chaos as families pack what few belongings they have and attempt to flee the city on foot or by whatever means available. Temporary shelters are overflowing, and there are severe shortages of food, clean water, and medical supplies. Local hospitals, already struggling, are bracing for a potential surge in casualties.

Israel has stated that it is taking steps to avoid civilian casualties and has designated "evacuation corridors" for residents. Yet, aid groups say these measures are inadequate and often do not guarantee safety or access to relief.

International leaders and organizations, including the European Union and several Middle Eastern governments, have called for an immediate ceasefire and renewed diplomatic efforts to prevent further humanitarian catastrophe.

“This is not just a military operation—it is a crisis of humanity,” said the head of Médecins Sans Frontières (Doctors Without Borders) in a press briefing. “Without urgent international intervention, we may witness a disaster on a scale not seen in Gaza for decades.”

As the occupation unfolds, the future remains uncertain for Gaza’s population, many of whom are trapped between violence and starvation with few options left.