In a surprising development, the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) have reportedly initiated a potential ground offensive around Khan Yunis in the southern part of the Gaza Strip. Once considered a safe haven, the city is now at the center of military activity, with residents being warned of imminent strikes through leaflets and mass text messages.

Reports indicate the possible presence of Israeli tanks on Salah a-Din road, a crucial north-south highway in Gaza, raising uncertainty in the region. However, the IDF has not officially confirmed any ground operations in the southern part of the Gaza Strip.

Sources suggest that Hamas leaders might have sought refuge in the south, potentially explaining the surge in military activities. Despite calls from US officials to protect Gaza's civilian population, IDF airstrikes in the southern region have intensified.

Since the war's outbreak on October 7, the death toll in Gaza has surpassed 15,520, with 316 fatalities reported following the recent breakdown of a week-long ceasefire. The IDF has announced plans for Palestinian evacuations, but the UN and human rights groups find these plans unfeasible given the confined population of 2.3 million in the southern part of the Gaza Strip.