United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Friday criticized Israel's plan to take control of Gaza City, with the U.N. chief's spokesperson saying the decision marked "a dangerous escalation" that will result in forced displacement of Palestinians.

The IDF says it has conquered about 75% of Gaza since entering in October 2023 but has avoided major ground operations in Gaza City and a handful of other places where it believes hostages are being held — and where a majority of Palestinians are living after mass displacement within the territory.