Israel’s military has said it would intensify strikes on Gaza ahead of a planned ground invasion, as UN agencies warned of a “catastrophic” humanitarian situation in the blockaded territory, AFP reports.

Israel will now intensify its bombardment, to minimise the risks to its troops when they begin a ground invasion, military spokesman Admiral Daniel Hagari said.

“From today, we are increasing the strikes and minimising the danger,” he said.“We will increase the attacks and therefore I called on Gaza City residents to continue moving south for their safety.”