The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) says it is fighting Hamas across the Gaza Strip after pushing into the enclave’s south.

“The IDF continues to extend its ground operation against Hamas centres in all of the Gaza Strip,” spokesperson Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari told reporters in Tel Aviv.

“The forces are coming face-to-face with terrorists and killing them.”

Hamas said it had engaged Israeli troops one mile from the southern city of Khan Younis. Residents told Reuters they could hear tank fire.

On Sunday, the IDF ordered civilians to evacuate some areas in and near the city but made no announcement of any new southern ground assault.

It marked the clearest indication yet that Israel has now started its widely expected planned ground offensive in southern Gaza as its renewed offensive enters its fourth day.

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