The situation in Gaza City is 'nothing short of cataclysmic', a UN official has told the BBC, as Israeli tanks and troops continue to advance on the third day of a ground offensive.
Olga Cherevko, a spokeswoman for the UN's humanitarian office, stated she witnessed a continuous flow of Palestinians heading south during a recent visit to the city, although hundreds of thousands remain behind.
The World Health Organization (WHO) warned that hospitals overwhelmed by demand are nearing collapse, unable to receive lifesaving supplies due to the ongoing conflict.
The Israeli military claims its operations are aimed at 'dismantling terror infrastructure and eliminating terrorists' within Gaza City.
Israel states its objectives include rescuing hostages held by Hamas and defeating a significant number of militants, but the offensive has drawn significant international criticism, especially given the area's dire humanitarian conditions.
The UN and affiliates have reported over 200,000 individuals moving from northern to southern Gaza since mid-August, with a sharp increase in displacements since the conflict escalated. Cherevko noted the continuous dire conditions faced by civilians, many carrying their belongings on foot.
Witness accounts have reported Israeli strikes targeting specific areas, causing multiple casualties including at least 14 deaths from military fire in the Gaza Strip on the latest reported day.
Healthcare services remain critically impaired, with hospitals facing extraordinary occupancy rates and devastating resource shortages, as many must cope with extreme violence and trauma.
The WHO's Director-General has emphasized the gravity of the situation, underscoring that essential medical services are severely hampered by the violence, leaving the most vulnerable in peril.
In light of deteriorating conditions, the UN warns of an escalating humanitarian crisis, stressing that many people are left without shelter or adequate resources, compounded by the inability to reach safe evacuation zones.
