The Israeli military issued an urgent evacuation order to all residents of Gaza City, warning that remaining in the area poses extreme danger amidst plans for a large-scale ground offensive.
In a statement, the Arabic spokesman for the military called on an estimated one million Palestinians to move southwards for their safety. The order comes as Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced that recent airstrikes are merely a precursor to an 'intensive operation' targeting what he described as Hamas's last key stronghold.
Hamas responded vehemently, labeling the evacuation order a 'fully-fledged crime of forced displacement.'
Criticism of Israel's military strategy is mounting from various quarters, including the United Nations, which warns that escalating hostilities in a region already grappling with famine could spiral into a humanitarian catastrophe.
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) reinforced the urgency of their message through leaflets distributed over Gaza City and social media channels. They emphasized the seriousness of the situation, stating they were prepared to take decisive action against Hamas.
The ongoing conflict in Gaza, which intensified following a joint attack by Hamas on southern Israel in October 2023, has led to significant loss of life, with official reports indicating at least 64,605 casualties in Gaza due to Israeli military actions since the conflict reignited.
The UN has recorded nearly 97,000 people displaced recently, but many have been unable to move due to the high costs of travel and lack of safe routes.
In light of international humanitarian concerns, the Israeli strategy remains under scrutiny as the situation continues to evolve with mounting tensions in the region.
