The Israeli military launched heavy air and artillery strikes on northern Gaza City on Wednesday, after declaring that evacuation of the city is “inevitable” and urging residents to move toward central and southern areas.
Local reporters said repeated strikes hit residential blocks in Jabalia al-Balad and Jabalia al-Nazla, as well as the Sheikh Radwan district. Explosive devices or “robotic” charges were reportedly planted in parts of Safatawi and Jabalia al-Balad ahead of demolitions, with additional blasts reported in northern neighborhoods.
Shelling also continued in southern and northern sections of Gaza City, including Zeitoun and Sabra in the south and Safatawi and Jabalia al-Balad in the north. The escalation triggered fresh waves of displacement toward central and western Gaza City, where overcrowding and worsening humanitarian conditions were reported.
Israeli military spokesperson Avichay Adraee said on X that the army had begun facilitating the entry of tents, preparing areas for aid-distribution hubs and extending a water line. He added that there were “vast empty areas” in the southern Strip meant to accommodate evacuees.
Residents and aid workers said many families remain unable to relocate due to severe congestion, high transport costs, and months of financial exhaustion from the war.