The Israeli government has indicated that it intends to expand its military operations in the Gaza Strip and seize Gaza City, the largest city in the enclave that is believed to have a population of nearly a million residents.
On Friday, the Israel Defense Forces said a local humanitarian pause in military activity will not apply to Gaza City.
The IDF started the limited pause in the strip in late July to allow more aid to reach the area.
Local media also said Israel will reduce the flow of aid into the northern part of the strip, and urge residents there to begin evacuating to southern areas.
The Israeli military said that those who relocate to the south will receive humanitarian aid. It said preparations are being made for erecting tents and food distribution.
But the United Nations has reported widespread famine in Gaza City and surrounding areas.
The International Committee of the Red Cross said that many people in the city are unable to comply with evacuation orders because they are starving, sick, injured or suffering from physical disabilities.
It said that under the current conditions a mass evacuation of the city could never be done in a way that is safe and dignified
