Gaza City is now largely abandoned, with more than half of its residents fleeing an Israeli Defense Forces operation that targets what the military calls a Hamas stronghold. The ongoing offensive has dramatically transformed the urban landscape, leaving streets deserted and tensions high.
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Gaza City mostly empty amid Israeli offensive against Hamas
Photo by Upi
Key Takeaways:
- More than half of Gaza City’s residents have evacuated.
- Israeli Defense Forces continue their offensive.
- Israel views the city as a strategic Hamas base.
- The story was published by UPI on 2025-09-20.
- Categories include politics, top news, and crime.
Gaza City Finds Itself Empty
More than half of Gaza City’s population has left in recent days. Streets and marketplaces that once bustled stand eerily silent, reflecting the widespread uncertainty facing those who remain.
Ongoing Israeli Military Offensive
Israel has maintained its offensive in Gaza City, which the Israel Defense Forces describe as a Hamas stronghold. Military officials insist that the mission’s focus is on disabling Hamas’s capabilities in the region.
Impact on Residents
The departure of so many citizens has reshaped daily life. Local services are disrupted, and many buildings stand vacant. Concerned family members and neighbors have joined a mass exodus, seeking safety in nearby areas.
Global Context
While specific international reactions are not detailed in the original news feed, the classification of the conflict under “politics,” “top news,” and “crime” indicates broader implications. Observers continue to watch the area closely, estimating the extent of the displacement and potential regional fallout.
Present Situation
At the time of publication, Israeli forces remain active in Gaza City, and evacuees have yet to return. With more than half the city’s residents already gone, the operation proceeds against an increasingly empty urban landscape. The fate of Gaza City and its displaced population remains uncertain as events unfold.
