• Israeli military issues evacuation orders to Gaza City residents as intense bombing continues.
• High-rises are targeted under claims of Hamas activity, raising concerns over civilian safety.
• More than 64,000 Palestinians reported killed since the escalation began following the October 2023 attack.

The Israeli military has intensified its bombing campaign in Gaza City, recently urging Palestinians to evacuate to designated areas in the south. As military operations progress, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that capturing Gaza City, a known Hamas stronghold, is vital to quell further militant attacks. This extensive operation already threatens to displace large numbers of the area's civilian population, with the military claiming control over up to 75% of Gaza as of last week, according to Channel News Asia and Dawn.

Warnings have been issued for residents to leave under the threat of imminent air strikes, with the military describing targeted buildings as vital to Hamas operations—allegations that have drawn skepticism. Reports indicate at least 68 Palestinians were killed in recent strikes, highlighting the profound humanitarian crisis unfolding within the besieged territory. The conflict has inflicted overwhelming civilian casualties, with over 64,368 fatalities reported since the onset of hostilities in October 2023, as detailed by Al Jazeera and Reuters.

Israeli strikes have particularly targeted high-rise buildings, including the recent demolition of the 15-storey Soussi Tower, claimed by Israel to be used for Hamas' military activities. The military's advance has been characterized by systematic destruction of residential areas, contributing to the massive displacement within Gaza, where nearly half the population had sought refuge before the war escalated. Civilians have expressed their disbelief in the efficacy and safety of designated "humanitarian zones," which have increasingly become targets for strikes, according to Al Jazeera and India Times.

The U.S. has noted its deep involvement in diplomatic efforts around the situation, suggesting a potential ceasefire negotiation amid fears of growing international condemnation of Israel's actions and further escalation of violence. Concerns about the humanitarian consequences of the airstrikes have been amplified by organizations like Amnesty International, which denounced the bombings as leading to significant civilian harm. The reality on the ground remains dire, with many injured and irreplaceable infrastructure destroyed, compelling many families into dislocation, as reported by Reuters and Al Jazeera.