Israeli forces stepped up attacks across Gaza on Tuesday as the Israel-Hamas war entered its 200th day. Residents reported some of the heaviest shelling in weeks along with new orders to evacuate northern regions of the enclave, which Israeli officials called a "dangerous combat zone."

Israeli army spokesperson Avichay Adraee used the X social media platform to urge residents in parts of Beit Lahiya, along Gaza's northern edge, to proceed to designated shelter areas, saying Israel is moving forward with plans to "work with extreme force against terrorist infrastructure and subversive elements" in the region.

The orders come about four months after Israeli defense officials said Hamas militants no longer controlled that area.

Increased strikes were reported in southern and central parts of Gaza amid Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's threats to invade Rafah, Gaza's southernmost city where an estimated 1.5 million displaced civilians have taken refuge, largely in makeshift encampments.

In nearby Khan Younis, about 8 kilometers north of Rafah, The Associated Press reported that a new compound of tents was being erected, possibly to shelter displaced civilians fleeing an anticipated attack on Rafah. The AP cited an official representing the Hamas-run Gaza health ministry who said the tent compound is being set up to house civilians currently sheltering in a hospital.