More Rafah evacuations as Israel steps up operations

Gaza, Israel: Israel has ordered more people to flee Rafah as it prepares to expand its assault on the southern Gazan city despite international condemnation of its offensive in the densely populated area.

The Israel Defense Forces said on social media on Saturday that Palestinians should leave three districts close to the centre of Rafah and two refugee camps in the city.

The UN estimates that about 150,000 people have already fled Rafah since Israel sent ground troops to the eastern edge of the city on Monday and seized the border crossing with Egypt.

Fierce fighting is under way in Gaza City’s Zeitoun district after Israel launched its latest ground assault in the north, months after announcing Hamas had been “dismantled” in the area. (Agencies)