DEVELOPING: Israeli Forces Close In on Gaza City as Hamas Prepares for Street-to-Street Battle

Breaking News: Israeli Forces Close In on Gaza City as Hamas Prepares for Street-to-Street Battle Israeli forces have reached the outskirts of Gaza City, with tanks and armoured vehicles spotted near the city centre. The BBC has verified footage of an Israeli tank at Hamid Junction, just 1.5km from the central al-Shifa hospital. The advance comes as Hamas fighters reportedly regroup in the city, sparking fears of intense street-to-street fighting. Thousands of Palestinians have already fled Gaza City since Israel launched its ground offensive last week. Israel describes Gaza City as the "last stronghold" of Hamas and aims to "eliminate terrorists" and rescue its 48 remaining hostages. The Israeli military has used large-scale air strikes and demolitions of tower blocks to pave the way for its ground forces. The situation on the ground remains volatile, with reports of Israeli armoured vehicles near the main UN compound in southern Gaza City. A Hamas figure claims the militant group is willing to call thousands of fighters into the city, raising concerns about civilian casualties. This is a developing story and will be updated as more information becomes available. *This is a developing story. Updates will be provided as more information becomes available. Based on reporting from Bbc.*