Israeli army says Gaza City completely encircled

Israel's military has said Israeli forces have encircled the Hamas stronghold of Gaza City as it continues its assault on the Gaza Strip.

The Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) said soldiers were engaged in close quarters combat with Hamas fighters staging hit and run attacks from tunnels.

On Thursday the UN Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) said four of its schools being used as shelters hade been damaged in less than 24 hours.

The Hamas-run health ministry says over 9,000 Palestinians have been killed in the Gaza Strip since 7 October.