Israel’s military on Sunday ordered people living in parts of central Gaza to evacuate. This marks a shift in the ongoing 21-month war, as Israeli troops prepare to move into areas previously untouched by ground operations. These warnings cover the area between Deir al-Balah city and the southern cities of Khan Younis and Rafah. This evacuation further limits movement inside the densely packed Gaza Strip, already devastated by continuous fighting.
Israel Prepares New Assault
The Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) explained that the evacuation warnings are part of preparations for fresh attacks against Hamas targets. Military spokesperson Avichay Adraee said the army would act “with intensity” against militants and urged civilians to move to the Muwasi area, a barren coastal zone now labelled as a humanitarian zone. He specifically asked people sheltering in tents to relocate immediately.
Aid Supplies Could Be Hit
So far, international aid groups working in Gaza have not responded to this latest evacuation order. However, many of their supply points fall within the affected zone. As a result, this move could worsen the already severe shortages of food, water, and medical supplies in Gaza, where over 2 million people are struggling to survive.
Gaza Faces Worsening Crisis
Most of Gaza’s population has been displaced multiple times since the war began in October 2023. Conditions are worsening, while anger also grows in Israel itself. Protests continue each week, with people demanding the government negotiate a ceasefire and secure the release of hostages held by Hamas.
Families Demand Answers
The Hostages Family Forum, which represents relatives of people still held in Gaza, criticised the new evacuation order. The group said, “Enough! The Israeli people overwhelmingly want an end to the fighting and a comprehensive agreement that will return all of the hostages.” They accused Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s government of having “no clear war plan” and urged a political solution.
On Saturday night, thousands of Israelis joined the group’s weekly protest in Tel Aviv, calling for a hostage deal and an end to the war.
Background of the War
The conflict started on 7 October 2023, after Hamas launched a surprise attack inside Israel. Around 1,200 Israelis were killed and 251 were taken hostage. Of those, 50 hostages remain in Gaza. Israeli officials believe less than half of them are still alive.
In response to Hamas’s attack, Israel began its military operation, which has killed over 58,000 Palestinians, according to Gaza’s health ministry. Although this ministry operates under Hamas, international aid agencies and the UN consider its death toll figures as reliable. The ministry reports that more than half of those killed were women and children.
Ceasefire Talks Stuck
Israel believes its military pressure will eventually force Hamas to accept a ceasefire. However, negotiations held in Qatar have stalled. Both domestic protests and international calls for peace are rising, yet no breakthrough appears near.