Israel Expands Gaza 'Security Zone' Amid Renewed Offensive: Airstrikes, and Rising Tensions

Israeli forces advanced into northern Gaza on Friday, expanding what they describe as a "security buffer zone" along the enclave's perimeter-just days after announcing plans to seize large swaths of southern Gaza in a renewed military operation.

The move has triggered one of the largest mass evacuations of the war, with hundreds of thousands of Palestinians fleeing under Israeli evacuation orders.

Northern Gaza: Escalation in Shejaia

Troops pushed into Shejaia, a suburb east of Gaza City, following evacuation warnings issued Thursday. Witnesses reported chaotic scenes as families fled on foot, donkey carts, and overcrowded vehicles, carrying whatever belongings they could salvage. The Israeli military stated it had established "safe routes" for civilians, but Gaza health authorities accused Israel of killing at least 27 people-including women and children -in an airstrike on the Dar Al-Arqam school in Gaza City.

Israel defended the strike, claiming the school housed a Hamas command center and alleging militants systematically exploit civilian infrastructure. Hamas denies the accusation, calling it a pretext for indiscriminate attacks.

Southern Gaza: Rafah Operations and Displacement Fears

Meanwhile, Israeli forces tightened their grip around Rafah's ruins, though their long-term strategy remains unclear. Gaza residents fear Israel aims to depopulate strategic areas, including farmland and water sources, potentially rendering parts of the enclave uninhabitable.

The military insists the operations target Hamas infrastructure, claiming the dismantling of militant hubs and the killing of "numerous terrorists."

However, Palestinians and international observers warn of a deliberate campaign to force permanent displacement-echoing concerns over a controversial U.S.-backed proposal to redevelop Gaza

Israeli ministers vow to continue until all 59 remaining hostages are freed, while Hamas demands a permanent ceasefire as a condition for their release.

The conflict, ignited by Hamas' October 7 attack that killed 1,200 Israelis and saw over 250 taken hostage, has now left Gaza in ruins. Palestinian health officials report more than 50,000 dead, though independent verification remains difficult amid the blockade and ongoing fighting.