The Israeli military has escalated its offensive in Gaza City, instructing all residents to evacuate south to the central Gaza Strip. Leaflets dropped by aircraft have marked safe routes leading to shelters in Deir al-Balah and al-Zawaida, urging residents to leave the “dangerous combat zone.” While the Israeli military frames this as a counterterrorism operation targeting Hamas and Palestinian Islamic Jihad (PIJ) fighters, the UN and human rights organizations have expressed deep concern about the impact on civilians. Amidst these evacuation orders, the UN has raised alarms about residents being directed to areas where military operations are already ongoing, leading to further casualties and a strain on resources. The Deir al-Balah area, where many are being directed, is already overcrowded with displaced Palestinians and lacks adequate infrastructure and humanitarian assistance. The ongoing conflict has resulted in a significant loss of life, with thousands killed and tens of thousands displaced in the region. As international negotiations for a ceasefire and hostage release continue, the situation on the ground remains dire for civilians caught in the crossfire.
Impending Humanitarian Crisis in Gaza City: Israeli Military Issues Evacuation Orders Amid Ongoing Offensive
