At least 32 people, including 12 children, were killed in airstrikes across Gaza City as Israel escalates its offensive and urges residents to evacuate, medical officials reported Saturday.

Israel has intensified strikes on Gaza City, targeting high-rise buildings it claims house Hamas surveillance equipment, in a bid to seize the city, considered Hamas’ last stronghold. One overnight strike in Sheikh Radwan killed a family of 10, including a mother and three children.

Despite calls to leave, many residents remain due to high relocation costs, repeated displacement, and safety concerns. Israel says over 250,000 people have left northern Gaza, while the UN estimates more than 100,000 have moved south since mid-August. Humanitarian agencies warn mass displacement is worsening the crisis, with shelters and supplies still pending entry into Gaza.

The bombardment follows Israel’s recent strike targeting Hamas leaders in Qatar, raising concerns for ongoing ceasefire negotiations and the safety of around 48 hostages still held in Gaza.

The Gaza conflict began on Oct. 7, 2023, when Hamas militants attacked southern Israel, killing over 1,200 people and abducting 251. Israel’s retaliation has killed over 64,700 Palestinians, including large numbers of women and children, and displaced about 90% of Gaza’s population.