The Israeli military has extended its evacuation order to encompass the entirety of Gaza City, following the displacement of tens of thousands of Palestinians from various neighborhoods earlier this week. The decision comes amidst escalating tensions in the region.
In an effort to facilitate the movement of civilians to safer areas, the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) have announced the suspension of inspections along two key roads in Gaza City. These measures aim to streamline access to humanitarian zones, acknowledging the ongoing risks posed by the conflict.
A recent IDF communication highlighted specific routes deemed safe for passage, including Tariq Bin Ziyad and Omar Al-Mukhtar Streets for westward travel, and Al-Wahda and Khalil Al-Wazir Streets for eastward movement towards designated safe zones.
Reports from Gaza City indicate continued shelling, with casualties reported in various areas. The Civil Defense spokesman noted fatalities in the industrial zone and financial district, underscoring the gravity of the situation.
Concerns have been raised about the impact of the evacuation directive on already displaced communities, with the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) warning of potential exacerbation of the humanitarian crisis.
The IDF's evacuation orders, targeting a quarter of a million residents, are justified as a precautionary measure to prevent civilian casualties amid ongoing military operations against Hamas strongholds. The IDF emphasizes its commitment to minimizing harm to non-combatants.
Meanwhile, Hamas has condemned the evacuations, viewing them as a setback to ceasefire negotiations and efforts to secure the release of hostages. The situation remains fluid, with both sides entrenched in their positions.
