Israel's defence minister has said its forces are 'tightening the siege' around Gaza City by extending its control of a military corridor across the territory towards the coast. Israel Katz also issued a final warning to the hundreds of thousands of Palestinians in the city to evacuate southwards, saying those who remained during the offensive against Hamas would be 'terrorists and supporters of terror'. Hospitals reported that 45 people had been killed by Israeli fire in Gaza City on Wednesday, while the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) stated it was forced to suspend operations due to escalating violence. Israel is stepping up the assault as Hamas weighs its response to US President Donald Trump's new plan to end the war, which includes a proposed immediate ceasefire and the release of hostages. Arab and Turkish mediators are pressing for a positive response, yet a senior Hamas official indicated the group is likely to reject the plan, stating it serves Israel's interests. Katz revealed that the IDF aims to secure the last stronghold of Hamas, tightening the siege around Gaza City further. He warned that this was the last chance for those wishing to move south, stating that those who remain in Gaza will be regarded as terrorists. The ICRC emphasizes the necessity for protection of civilians per international humanitarian law and the obligation of Israel to ensure their basic needs are met. Furthermore, reports indicated rising difficulties for residents attempting to evacuate due to high costs and previous displacements. Amidst the chaos, the humanitarian situation in Gaza continues to deteriorate, with accusations from the Hamas-run Government Media Office that Israel is employing strategies of suffocation and siege against the Palestinian people.