On Tuesday, the Israeli army ordered the immediate evacuation of Gaza City residents. It dropped thousands of leaflets from the air, instructing civilians to move to al-Mawasi, a designated “humanitarian zone” near Khan Younis. The announcement sparked panic and chaos in Gaza’s largest urban center, home to around one million Palestinians.
The evacuation order comes ahead of a new ground operation. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu warned residents to leave the area immediately. “You have been warned. Take this opportunity and leave,” he said in a public message. Many residents said they had no safe place to go. Some prepared to move south, while others chose to stay despite the danger.
Since the war began in October 2023, Gaza’s population has been forced to flee multiple times. Many have already lost their homes, and food shortages are severe. A mother of six, Um Muhammad, said, “I didn’t leave during last week’s bombing, but now I’m going to my daughter’s place.” The constant displacement has made the humanitarian crisis worse.
Israeli forces are preparing to enter Gaza City from multiple directions. Defense Minister Yoav Gallant said the operation will intensify if Hamas does not release hostages. Meanwhile, peace talks are stalled. Qatar urged Hamas leaders to respond positively to the latest U.S.-brokered ceasefire offer. Hamas said it is reviewing the proposal with mediators.
The war continues to draw global criticism. Several European countries plan to recognize Palestine at the UN General Assembly in protest. Israel has rejected this move. Critics warn that Israel’s plan to disarm and control Gaza will deepen the humanitarian crisis. Gaza’s Health Ministry says over 64,000 Palestinians have been killed, most of the population is now homeless, and large parts of the region are in ruins.