Israeli Tanks Advance on Gaza City amid Famine, Evacuation Orders

Israeli tanks advanced into the northern edge of Gaza City, particularly the Ebad-Alrahman neighborhood, shelling houses and forcing residents to flee deeper into the city. Israel is preparing a new offensive to seize Gaza City, which it describes as Hamas' last stronghold, and has declared evacuation of the city "inevitable," encouraging Palestinians to move south where humanitarian aid is being prepared. Despite evacuation orders, many residents and church leaders have chosen to stay, citing the dangers of fleeing south as a potential death sentence. The conflict has led to severe humanitarian crises, with the United Nations declaring a famine in Gaza due to obstruction of aid. Mediators have circulated a draft ceasefire and hostage release deal accepted by Hamas, but Israel has yet to respond officially. The escalation and humanitarian fallout are expected to be key topics at a White House meeting chaired by President Donald Trump to discuss the war and post-war plans.