Intense Urban Warfare Imminent in Gaza City as Israeli Forces Advance

Tue Nov 11 2025 00:23:21 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

Israeli troops are closing in on Gaza City as Hamas prepares for fierce urban combat. Thousands of civilians are fleeing amid the intensifying conflict, heightening fears of significant casualties.

As Israeli forces move closer to the center of Gaza City, Hamas fighters are reportedly gearing up for a major confrontation in urban areas. The situation has led to thousands of Palestinians fleeing the city, with both sides preparing for potentially devastating street-to-street fighting. Concerns over civilian safety are rising, while international journalists face restrictions on accessing the area.

Israeli forces have neared the centre of Gaza City, as Hamas fighters reportedly regroup amid fears of intense street-to-street fighting.

Thousands of Palestinians have been forced to flee the city since Israel launched its ground offensive last week. Israel describes the city as the last stronghold of Hamas and aims to eliminate terrorists while rescuing its remaining hostages.

The BBC has verified footage of an Israeli tank at Hamid Junction, approximately 1.5 km from al-Shifa hospital, with armoured vehicles reported near the main UN compound.

In response, a Hamas figure indicated the group is mobilizing thousands of fighters for a final, decisive battle, raising concerns about combat in densely populated urban areas.

The IDF has estimated that up to 3,000 Hamas fighters are currently in Gaza City, although Hamas claims this number may be as high as 5,000. The unfolding scenario presents significant risks as thousands of civilians remain in harm's way.

International journalists have faced restrictions, complicating efforts to verify claims from both sides. Recent reports indicate that Israel is taking steps to destroy tunnels used by militants, while Hamas adapts its strategies to guerrilla tactics.

With ongoing battles in urban areas, Israeli forces have adjusted their tactics to conduct rapid assaults and then withdraw, prompting civil unrest among residents.

Many families are fleeing south along the al-Rashid road, a route heavily controlled by the Israeli military, leaving behind belongings as the cost of transportation surges to over $3,000, which is a significant burden for most Gaza residents.

Those who remain face dire conditions, including a humanitarian crisis exacerbated by constant bombardments and limited access to basic necessities. The escalation in conflict has resulted in staggering casualties, with figures showing over 65,000 deaths in Gaza due to Israeli attacks since the conflict's latest round began on October 7, 2023.