Mass exodus from Gaza City as Israeli offensive intensifies

Thousands of Palestinians are fleeing Gaza City as Israel presses a major ground offensive aimed at seizing what it calls Hamas’s last stronghold. The assault has triggered widespread destruction, hospital evacuations, and mounting international outrage .

Gaza’s Hamas-run health ministry reported multiple strikes on al-Rantisi children’s hospital, forcing families to flee. Israel said it was reviewing the claims but confirmed more than 150 “terror targets” had been hit in two days. The IDF announced a temporary second evacuation route, but Palestinians say costs of transport and tents are soaring, leaving many trapped.

The UN estimates around 650,000 people remain in Gaza City , even as 350,000 have already fled. Aid groups warn the designated “humanitarian zone” in al-Mawasi is overcrowded and unsustainable, with some evacuees forced to return north. Families of Israeli hostages have also protested, fearing the offensive endangers their loved ones.

The offensive has drawn sharp global condemnation . UN human rights chief Volker Türk called the assault “utterly unacceptable,” while the UK labelled it “reckless.” A UN Commission of Inquiry has accused Israel of genocide, claims Israel firmly rejects. Meanwhile, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio signaled tacit support, insisting Hamas leaves no room for a negotiated peace.

With famine already declared in Gaza City, aid agencies warn the escalation will drive civilians into “even deeper catastrophe.”