UN Official Describes 'Cataclysmic' Conditions as Israeli Forces Advance in Gaza City

Israeli forces have intensified their ground offensive in Gaza City, leading to significant civilian displacement and escalating humanitarian concerns.

Olga Cherevko, a spokeswoman for the UN's humanitarian office, described the situation as "nothing short of cataclysmic," noting a continuous stream of Palestinians moving southward, though hundreds of thousands remain in the city.

The World Health Organization has warned that overwhelmed hospitals are on the brink of collapse due to restrictions on delivering lifesaving supplies.

The Israeli military stated that its forces are "dismantling terror infrastructure and eliminating terrorists" in Gaza City.

Since mid-August, at least 200,000 people have moved from northern to southern Gaza, with approximately 55,000 making the journey since Sunday.

Cherevko recounted witnessing multiple Israeli strikes "very close" to a UN convoy during her visit to Gaza City, describing it as "a constant hit after hit."

Witnesses reported Israeli tanks in the Sheikh Radwan and Tal al-Hawa neighborhoods, areas that have experienced heavy bombardment in recent days.

Local hospitals reported at least 14 fatalities from Israeli fire across the Gaza Strip on Thursday, including nine in Gaza City.

The Israeli military announced it is "expanding" operations in the city, without providing specific details about troop movements.

Lt. Gen. Eyal Zamir, the military's chief of staff, instructed troops to "intensify the blows against Hamas and to decisively defeat the Gaza City brigade," aiming to return all hostages and dismantle Hamas's military and governing capabilities.

Cherevko highlighted the challenges many face in complying with evacuation orders due to the high costs and lack of transportation, leading many to travel on foot with minimal belongings.

Upon arrival in southern areas, many displaced individuals find themselves without shelter or clear direction, with some families wandering for days in search of a place to sleep.