Escalating Tensions in Gaza: Israeli Forces Advance as Hamas Prepares for Urban Combat

Tue Oct 21 2025 15:02:39 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

Israeli ground forces are closing in on Gaza City as Hamas mounts a defense, risking a fierce urban battle amidst a humanitarian crisis.

Israeli troops are approaching the heart of Gaza City, having initiated a ground offensive that has prompted a mass exodus of residents. Hamas is reportedly gearing up for intense street fighting, signaling a potential escalation. With the city described as Hamas's last stronghold, clashes in urban areas pose severe risks for civilians. The ongoing conflict has resulted in significant casualties and a dire humanitarian situation.

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 says its aim is to eliminate terrorists and rescue its 48 remaining hostages, 20 of whom are thought to be alive.

The BBC has verified footage of an Israeli tank at Hamid Junction, around 1.5km (0.9 miles) from the central al-Shifa hospital. Israeli armoured vehicles were also reportedly seen close to the main UN compound in southern Gaza City, about 700m (2297ft) from the centre.

The BBC has spoken to a Hamas figure who claims the militant group is willing to call thousands of fighters into the city, raising fears of intense fighting in dense urban areas where thousands of civilians remain.

According to residents in Gaza City, Israel has reacted with rapid thrusts into urban areas, before pulling back within hours, while Hamas is rumored to adopt guerrilla tactics to counter losses.

The humanitarian situation has deteriorated sharply with reports of famine conditions and significant displacement. The UN has estimated that at least 321,000 people have fled southern Gaza since mid-August.

The ongoing conflict, ignited by a Hamas-led attack on Israel in October 2023, has claimed the lives of over 65,000 people in Gaza since the military campaign began.