Thousands of Palestinians are fleeing Gaza City as Israeli forces intensify their assault, flattening entire neighborhoods and leaving residents with few places to seek safety, according to Al Jazeera.

Israeli tanks and warplanes have struck areas including Sabra, Shujayea, Tuffah and Jabalia, destroying homes, roads and infrastructure. Locals described the bombardments as “earthquakes” aimed at driving people from their homes.

Despite mounting protests in Israel and international condemnation, the military says it is targeting tunnels and weapons. Since August 6, more than 1,000 buildings have been destroyed in Gaza City’s Zeitoun and Sabra districts, according to Palestinian Civil Defence.

Half of Gaza’s population lives in the city, with thousands now pushing westward toward the coast or further south to areas like Khan Younis and al-Mawasi in search of refuge, Al Jazeera reported.