Israeli troops have moved to within 1.5 kilometers of central Gaza City, advancing from multiple directions as part of efforts to dismantle Hamas.
The BBC reported Wednesday that tanks were spotted near Hamid Junction, close to the United Nations compound in southern Gaza City.
CNN reported that tanks were also seen in the city’s west, near Beach Camp, and south of the Islamic University.
On Wednesday, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) said troops from the Nahal Brigade killed a militant in close-quarters combat, dismantled a compound used to launch rockets, and uncovered firearms, magazines, body armor, and stolen IDF uniforms.
⭕️ IDF troops continue to operate in Gaza City.
Troops from the Nahal Brigade eliminated a terrorist in close-quarters combat and dismantled an active compound used to launch rockets at our forces. They also uncovered weapons including firearms, magazines, body armor & stolen… pic.twitter.com/oD1gSB4LIc
— Israel Defense Forces (@IDF) September 24, 2025
The IDF also reported that an active cell planting explosive devices against Israeli soldiers was eliminated in an Israeli Air Force strike.
📍Gaza City: An operating terrorist cell, planting explosive devices intended to harm IDF soldiers, was identified and rapidly eliminated in an IAF strike.
The IDF will continue to operate against terrorist organizations in Gaza. pic.twitter.com/PWDg5QDEUc
— Israel Defense Forces (@IDF) September 23, 2025
The BBC, citing a Hamas official, reported that Izz al-Din al-Haddad, the group’s military commander, has ordered all available fighters across the Strip to converge on Gaza City and prepare for a “final, decisive battle.”
Israel estimates that 3,000 Hamas fighters remain in Gaza City, while Hamas claims the number is 5,000. SOFX could not independently verify these figures.
