The Israeli military has declared Gaza City “a dangerous combat zone” ahead of a looming offensive to conquer the Palestinian territory’s largest city after almost two years of devastating offensive, AFP reports.

In southern Gaza City, AFP footage showed Palestinians picking through the wreckage of a building following an Israeli strike. Mohammed Abu Qamar, 42, who is originally from Jabalia camp in northern Gaza but was heading south, said his “heart is burning”.

“We don’t want to leave our home. We’re exhausted,” he told AFP by telephone.

“Death is closing in around us.”

Abdul Karim Al-Damagh, 64, told AFP he was heading south and that it was the fifth time he had been displaced.

“Today, once again, I must abandon what remains of my home and memories… The south may be a bit quieter than here, but it’s not safe — fear chases us, and death is always near,” he said.