As of September 17, 2025, Israeli tanks have advanced further into Gaza City, intensifying military operations aimed at dismantling Hamas infrastructure. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have positioned forces near the city, conducting airstrikes and urging Palestinian residents to evacuate. This escalation has drawn significant international concern regarding the humanitarian situation. The IDF confirmed the start of a full-scale ground operation on Tuesday, September 16, 2025, with the aim of destroying Hamas military infrastructure.
The IDF has targeted high-rise buildings, which they claim are utilized by Hamas. To facilitate civilian movement, an additional 48-hour evacuation route has been opened along Salah ad-Din Street, active from September 17 to 19. However, many residents are hesitant to leave Gaza City, citing fears of permanent displacement and the dangers of the designated evacuation routes. A school teacher from the Sabra neighborhood expressed this sentiment, questioning the guarantee of return if they evacuate.
The United Nations has condemned the ongoing offensive, with UN spokesperson Stéphane Dujarric highlighting the "appalling impact on civilians enduring suffering and starvation" and calling for the protection of civilians and adherence to international law. On Wednesday, September 17, local health authorities reported at least 50 deaths across the Gaza Strip, with 39 of those in Gaza City. The UN agency for Palestine refugees, UNRWA, reported that 10 of its buildings in Gaza City, including schools and clinics used as shelters, have been hit in recent days. The situation has led to the displacement of nearly 70,000 people, with a significant number of malnutrition treatment facilities in Gaza City shutting down.
Further complicating the situation, a UN Independent International Commission of Inquiry has alleged that Israel's actions in Gaza constitute genocide, a claim Israel has rejected. The commission's report points to the killing of civilians, causing serious bodily or mental harm, and deliberately inflicting conditions of life calculated to bring about destruction as evidence.
International bodies, including the United Nations and various aid organizations, have called for an immediate ceasefire to prevent further loss of life and infrastructure damage. The international community continues to monitor the developments closely, urging all parties to prioritize civilian safety and pursue a peaceful resolution. An Israeli official indicated that military operations are focused on encouraging civilians to move south, with intensified combat anticipated in the coming months. It is estimated that around 600,000 residents may remain in Gaza City, while approximately 350,000 people have already evacuated. The complete capture of the city could take months. The ongoing conflict and its severe humanitarian consequences remain a critical global concern, with calls for de-escalation and the protection of civilian lives echoing internationally.