Thousands of Palestinians are fleeing Gaza City as fears rise over an imminent Israeli ground offensive. Heavy bombardments on the eastern parts of the city have pushed families to seek safety in the west and south. The growing exodus reflects widespread anxiety that the fighting will soon intensify, threatening countless lives already devastated by months of war.

Israel has declared its intention to seize full control of Gaza City, describing it as Hamas' last stronghold. While Israeli forces already occupy 75 percent of the enclave, military leaders warn that expanding operations could endanger the remaining hostages and drag troops into prolonged urban warfare. This has fueled alarm internationally and sparked major protests inside Israel demanding a ceasefire and prisoner deal.

In response, Egyptian and Qatari mediators are accelerating ceasefire talks in Cairo. Sources close to the discussions describe it as a last-ditch effort to avert escalation. Hamas has indicated willingness to consider a temporary truce but continues to reject Israel's demands to disarm or surrender leaders. The negotiations remain deadlocked, with humanitarian conditions in Gaza worsening by the day.

Inside Gaza, the displacement crisis has reached critical levels. Shelter managers estimate 1.5 million tents are needed, yet only a fraction have entered the territory due to border restrictions. Families forced to move multiple times now face severe shortages of food, water, and protection from harsh weather.

The United Nations reports that more than 1.3 million people urgently require emergency shelter. Local residents describe life as living under a death sentence, unsure when the next bombardment will strike. For many, moving south is the only option left, despite the lack of proper facilities to host them.

Since the war began in October 2023, more than 61,000 Palestinians have been killed, while most of Gaza's 2.2 million residents have been displaced. With famine spreading and ceasefire talks stalled, the people of Gaza City remain trapped between survival and uncertainty as the offensive looms closer.

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