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Israel has 40% control of Gaza City, and the Israel Defense Forces are preparing to seize the entire area , an Israeli military spokesperson confirmed Thursday.

Brig. Gen. Effie Defrin told reporters at a news briefing his forces had already secured large neighborhoods in its latest offensive.

"We continue to damage Hamas’ infrastructure," he said. "Today, we hold 40% of the territory of Gaza City.

"We will continue to operate until all the war’s objectives are achieved. First and foremost, the return of the hostages and the dismantling of Hamas’ rule."

UN EXPERT REPEATS ISRAEL 'GENOCIDE' CLAIMS AFTER US CALLS FOR HER REMOVAL

Last week, Israel declared Gaza City in the north a combat zone, with some districts designat

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