The Israel Defense Forces is advancing into Gaza City, targeting Hamas’s main stronghold, with troops engaged in combat against terrorists both above and below ground, IDF Spokesperson Brig. “Hamas has shown the world its true strategy: to exploit its own people and prolong this war,” said Defrin. Hamas continues to block civilians from leaving combat zones, choosing to sacrifice Gaza’s residents rather than protecting them, he added. Defrin noted that tons of supplies were waiting at the Kerem Shalom crossing for collection by the United Nations and other international organizations, calling on them to deliver the aid directly to Gazans. According to the IDF, more than 550,000 civilians have so far evacuated south from Gaza City, while the 162nd, 98th and 36th divisions have begun operating in Hamas strongholds.