Thu Sep 18 22:53:54 UTC 2025: ## Gaza City Residents Flee as Israeli Forces Advance, Aid Lifelines Collapse

**Gaza City -** Panic grips Gaza City as Israeli forces intensify their offensive, pushing from the northwest and southeast, effectively “sandwiching” residents and forcing them towards the coast. Reports describe families fleeing for their lives amidst relentless air strikes, drone attacks, and detonations from explosive-laden unmanned vehicles deployed by the Israeli army to destroy neighborhoods.

“The attacks on overcrowded neighbourhoods are causing panic and fear, and pushing people literally to run for their lives,” reported Al Jazeera’s Hani Mahmoud. Medical sources confirm at least 40 deaths in Gaza City on Thursday alone.

The Israeli army spokesperson Nadav Shoshani stated the advance, backed by air power, aims to pressure Hamas. However, the United Nations warns that Gaza City’s last lifelines are collapsing, accusing Israel of “systematically blocking” aid efforts. The Zikim crossing remains closed, and restrictions on food items are exacerbating the humanitarian crisis.

Despite the devastation and lack of “safe zones,” many remain in northern Gaza. The Palestinian Central Bureau of Statistics estimates approximately 740,000 people, roughly 35% of Gaza’s population, were still in the north as of Tuesday, though this number is expected to decline.

The Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) denounced Israel’s “blatant disregard” for international law regarding the distinction between combatants and civilians in its air strikes, particularly on internally displaced persons seeking shelter.

The escalating conflict has triggered international concern. The United States vetoed a UN Security Council resolution calling for a ceasefire, the lifting of aid restrictions, and the return of hostages held by Hamas. The UK’s permanent representative to the UN, Barbara Woodward, warned that Israel’s actions are hindering efforts to secure a deal that could end the suffering and bring hostages home.

Four Israeli soldiers were reportedly killed in Rafah, southern Gaza, in the early hours of Thursday.

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