Gaza City, Gaza Strip — Israel has declared Gaza City a combat zone and suspended humanitarian pauses that previously allowed aid deliveries. The military announced this change on Friday, stating it is in the "initial stages" of a planned offensive that has faced international criticism.

The Israeli military reported that it has halted midday pauses that permitted food and aid supplies to enter the city from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. This decision comes as Israel prepares to expand its military operations in Gaza City, where hundreds of thousands of displaced individuals are currently sheltering amid worsening humanitarian conditions.

Israeli army spokesperson Avichay Adraee stated, "We will intensify our strikes until we bring back all the kidnapped hostages and dismantle Hamas." The military's announcement follows the recovery of two hostages' bodies, including Ilan Weiss, who was killed during the October 7 attack that initiated the ongoing conflict. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu emphasized the government's commitment to recovering all hostages, both living and deceased.

Approximately 50 hostages remain in Gaza, with 20 believed to be alive. The Hostages and Missing Families Forum has urged the Israeli government to negotiate for the return of all hostages, stating, "Time is running out for the hostages. Time is running out for the people of Israel who carry this burden."

Israel has previously labeled Gaza City as a stronghold for Hamas, citing its extensive network of tunnels used by militants. The city also houses critical infrastructure and health facilities. The United Nations has warned that an invasion could result in the loss of half of Gaza's hospital bed capacity.

The suspension of humanitarian pauses coincides with a report from the Integrated Food Security Phase Classification, which declared Gaza City is experiencing famine. The report attributes the dire food situation to ongoing fighting, a blockade on aid, and widespread displacement.

Shaina Low, a spokesperson for the Norwegian Refugee Council, noted that preparations for the military offensive have already complicated aid deliveries. "We have faced unprecedented access and movement restrictions," she said. "Intensified military operations are going to further hinder our ability to respond."

The UN agency for Palestinian refugees, UNRWA, warned that the impending offensive could displace an additional one million people, exacerbating the humanitarian crisis. The agency stated, "Any further escalation would deepen suffering and push more people toward catastrophe."

As the situation in Gaza continues to deteriorate, the international community remains concerned about the humanitarian implications of Israel's military actions.