The Israeli military announced on Saturday that Gaza residents will start receiving tents and other shelter items from Sunday. These supplies are part of Israel’s plan to move civilians from active combat zones in northern Gaza to the south of the enclave “to ensure their safety.”

This announcement follows Israel’s earlier declaration that it plans to launch a new offensive to seize northern Gaza City, the largest urban area in the territory. The move has raised global concern about the safety of the 2.2 million people living in the war-hit region.

Netanyahu on Gaza City Offensive

Last Sunday, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said civilians would be evacuated before the military push. He described Gaza City as Hamas’ “last stronghold” and insisted that people would be moved to designated “safe zones” before fighting begins.

Role of the United Nations and Aid Groups

According to the Israeli military, the shelter items will enter Gaza through the Kerem Shalom crossing in the south. The United Nations and other international aid groups will handle transportation after Israel’s defence ministry inspects the supplies.

A spokesperson for the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs expressed worry about the relocation plan. The spokesperson said moving civilians again could deepen their suffering. However, the UN welcomed Israel’s decision to let tents and other shelter items into Gaza. “The UN and its partners will seize the opportunity this opens,” the spokesperson noted.

UN and Palestinian Concerns Over Safety

The United Nations has repeatedly warned that any new Israeli offensive could create a deeper catastrophe. Thousands of families already live in desperate conditions, and more displacement may worsen their plight.

Both UN officials and Palestinian representatives argue that no part of Gaza can be considered safe, including the southern areas where Israel has instructed people to move.

Questions Remain on Relocation

The Israeli military has not clarified whether the tents and supplies are intended for Gaza City’s one million residents or if those displaced will be sent further south to Rafah, near the Egyptian border.