The Israeli military reported that its forces had fired warning shots at a crowd of thousands in northern Gaza, aiming to eliminate what they described as “an immediate threat”.

In total, health authorities said 90 people had been killed by Israeli gunfire and airstrikes across the enclave on Sunday.

Israel expands displacement orders

Israeli sources have said the reason the army has so far stayed out is because they suspect Hamas might be holding hostages there.

Israeli air strikes continue across Gaza as residents struggle to find food and water. Source: AP / Abdel Kareem Hana

At least 20 of the remaining 50 hostages in captivity in Gaza are believed to still be alive.

“Can anyone (promise) to us that this decision will not come at the cost of losing our loved ones?” the families said in a statement.

Accelerating mass starvation

Pope Leo urged the cessation of the “barbarity of war,” expressing his deep sorrow over an Israeli attack on the only Catholic church in Gaza, which resulted in the deaths of three individuals on Thursday.