After intensified operations over the past week, the military said troops would gradually advance into the city, believing that at least 2,000 Hamas fighters remain there.

© Amir Cohen/Reuters

© Menahem Kahana/Agence France-Presse — Getty Images

The move will stop, at least temporarily, travel for medical treatment, attending university, visiting relatives or conducting business.

© Jeff Kowalsky/Agence France-Presse — Getty Images

With Israel’s expanded assault looming, Zeitoun already resembles other parts of Gaza that have been largely flattened in the war.

© By Samuel Granados