Israel urges palestinians to evacuate gaza city

The Israeli military has urged residents of Gaza City to relocate to a humanitarian zone in the southern Gaza Strip ahead of an anticipated operation to seize the city center.

"Take advantage of this opportunity to relocate early to the Al-Mawasi humanitarian zone, where thousands are already present," Avichay Adraee, a spokesperson for the Israel Defense Forces (IDF), said in a message to Gaza City residents on 6/9.

Adraee did not specify when the new offensive would begin. An IDF spokesperson previously stated they would not announce the timing of the operation to maintain the element of surprise.

The IDF stated the southern humanitarian zone "has essential infrastructure such as a field hospital, water pipelines, seawater desalination facilities, as well as food, tents, medicine, and medical care."

Smoke rises from an area hit by Israeli airstrikes in Gaza City, Gaza Strip on 5/9. Photo: AFP

Smoke rises from an area hit by Israeli airstrikes in Gaza City, Gaza Strip on 5/9. Photo: AFP

The Israeli military said it would continue to coordinate with the United Nations and international organizations to deploy humanitarian activities in the Gaza Strip, alongside expanding military operations in the area.

After launching its retaliatory campaign following the Hamas attack in 10/2023, Israel declared Al-Mawasi a humanitarian zone. However, the IDF has repeatedly bombarded the area, claiming to be targeting Hamas members hiding among civilians.

Many Palestinians in Gaza City have said in recent weeks that there is nowhere safe left in the Gaza Strip. Some have said they would rather die than be displaced again.

The UN estimates that about 1 million people are in and around Gaza City, the largest city in the Gaza Strip. The UN has warned of a disaster if the Israeli military proceeds with its plan to seize the northern city.

Israel is facing increasing domestic and international pressure to end its campaign targeting Gaza City, as well as its military operations in the Gaza Strip.

Last month, Hamas agreed to a proposed timed ceasefire and the phased release of hostages. However, Israel demands the immediate release of all hostages, the disarmament of Hamas, the relinquishing of control over the Gaza Strip, and other conditions.