The Israeli military is widening its offensive in the Gaza Strip, even as Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu weighs a new cease-fire proposal that would bring it to a halt.
Israeli officials say that ground forces are already operating in Zeitoun, a neighborhood in the southern part of the city. The possibility of Israeli soldiers moving into other neighborhoods in Gaza City has raised alarm among Palestinians who have been repeatedly displaced since the Hamas-led Oct. 7, 2023 attack on Israel that ignited the war.
Some people have said they would follow Israeli evacuation orders, while others have said they will remain in their homes, even if doing so would risk their lives. On Thursday, scores of Palestinians participated in a protest in Gaza City, demanding an end to the war.
The decision to move forward with the operation was approved by Mr. Netanyahu’s government in early August against the advice of the military’s high command, which has expressed concern about the exhaustion of reservist soldiers and the possibility of endangering hostages still held in Gaza.
Here’s what you need to know:
Why does Israel want to control Gaza City?
Mr. Netanyahu said in interviews earlier this month that an expanded operation would ensure Israel’s security, drive Hamas from power and enable the return of hostages.