The Israeli army attacked Gaza City Friday and officially declared it a combat zone.
International organisations and aid groups condemned the offensive immediately.
Health officials reported 63,025 Palestinians dead, including 59 in the past 24 hours.
Churches and aid groups pledged to stay in the city to support displaced residents.
Israel stated Hamas leaders hide in Gaza City and maintain an active tunnel network.
Smoke and explosions rose across southern Israel as strikes continued.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Israel must destroy Hamas to prevent another October 7 attack.
Civilians Endure Violence and Displacement
Gaza City residents said international protests failed to stop Israel’s attacks.
Mohamed Aboul Hadi said massacres continued even during humanitarian pauses.
Displaced families erected makeshift tents near the Nuseirat refugee camp Friday.
Mohammed Maarouf said dogs lived with more dignity than those forced into shelters with his family of nine.
Death Toll and Humanitarian Crisis Worsen
The Gaza Health Ministry confirmed over 63,000 Palestinians died since the war began.
The ministry reported 322 deaths from malnutrition, including 121 children, since the conflict started.
UN officials regard the ministry’s data as credible despite its Hamas affiliation.
Israel rejected the figures and did not provide an alternative casualty count.
Last month, Israel implemented “tactical pauses” from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. for limited aid.
Aid groups reported deliveries still faced obstacles from blockades, looting, and restrictions.
On Friday, Israel mobilised tens of thousands of reservists after targeted strikes.
Army spokesperson Avichay Adraee vowed intensified attacks until Hamas collapsed and hostages returned.
He urged civilians in Gaza City to flee south, calling evacuation unavoidable.
