Hamas released a video Saturday that it says shows its militants firing mortar shells at Israeli forces in Gaza.

Reuters was not able to independently verify the location or the date when the video was filmed.

The warfare in central and southern Gaza propelled a new exodus of people already driven from other areas in what Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant called an essential stage of Israel's mission to destroy its foe Hamas.

Gaza health authorities estimate the Palestinians death toll has risen to 21,507 — about 1% of Gaza's population. Thousands more bodies are feared to be buried in the ruins of obliterated neighbourhoods.