Israeli forces have taken full control of the Sheikh Radwan Pool area in Gaza City and are advancing towards the sea, according to multiple updates posted on September 17th, 2025, between 4:01 AM UTC and 4:46 AM UTC. The IDF is also moving into the Rimal area, located a few hundred meters north of Route 749, and making minor advances southwards on Al-Rashid Road. This military movement occurs as approximately 400,000 Palestinians have reportedly spread from Gaza City to southern Gaza, as per an assessment shared by Itay Blumental on X (formerly Twitter) on September 17th, 2025. The IDF's objective includes securing full control over the Sheikh Radwan Pool and expanding its presence in the Rimal neighborhood. Previous reports from September 17th, 2025, indicated continued civilian attempts to flee Gaza City amidst intensifying Israeli operations. The United Nations has previously asserted that Israel is committing genocide in its actions. The Israeli Air Force had conducted strikes on over 850 targets in Gaza City the preceding week, with the IDF estimating the presence of 2,000 to 2,500 trained terrorists. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu had also reiterated his stance on Qatar's neutrality and requested a meeting with U.S. President Donald Trump.
