Israel moves on Gaza City

Israel says it will press ahead with plans to take Gaza City while a UN-backed body prepares famine updates.

Israel pushes forward with Gaza City offensive as UN-backed body to give update on famine

Israel's cabinet approved plans for a major assault to take Gaza City. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, speaking in a video address from the Gaza division's headquarters, said the IDF has approval to take control of Gaza City and defeat Hamas, and to begin negotiations for the release of all hostages.

The army warned doctors and international organizations to prepare for the evacuation of Gaza City's one million residents to shelters in the south before troops move in. A UN-backed body is also preparing updates on famine conditions in Gaza, highlighting the humanitarian toll as fighting intensifies.

The plan blends security aims with hostage diplomacy. It signals a shift to an urban assault, which could bring heavy civilian costs and stretch aid networks. This raises questions about civilian protections in dense cities and the ability of aid groups to operate safely.

Timing matters. The move could draw international scrutiny and public backlash, while shaping the likelihood of any future ceasefire. The famine updates from the UN-backed body will test whether the world can demand protection even as security aims drive military decisions.

Highlights

The coming days will reveal how security goals and civilian protections can be balanced under pressure.