The Israeli army announced on Monday an escalation of its offensive operations from north to south in Gaza, which has prompted hundreds of thousands of civilians to flee the already-devastated Palestinian enclave.

According to Israel, its military has targeted about 120 sites in Rafah and Gaza City. The most intense bombardment is reportedly in Jabalia, located in northern Gaza, where Israel alleges that Hamas forces have regrouped.

Face-to-face fighting is reportedly occurring in the streets of Jabalia, with ongoing Israeli air and artillery strikes and advancements of tanks toward the central area.

The Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) claimed to have achieved "total operational control" in northern Gaza back in January. However, upon the withdrawal of troops, the IDF asserts that Hamas has reestablished its presence. Consequently, the IDF is now trying to evacuate up to 150,000 civilians due to the severity of the conflict.

Multiple rocket attacks by Hamas have been launched back at Israel from Jabalia while battles continue inside the city itself.

The Palestinian death toll from the ongoing Israeli attacks on the Gaza Strip had risen to 35,091, health authorities in the enclave said in a press statement on Monday.

SHOTLIST:

Sderot, Israel - May 13, 2024
1. Tank moving in Gaza Strip seen from distance;
2. Various of smoke from distance;
3. Israeli national flag, smoke.

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