The United Nations reported that Israel urgently instructed people in northern Gaza to relocate to the southern area within 24 hours.
The Israeli military conveyed this evacuation recommendation to the UN just before midnight, local time, on Thursday.
Israel Warning to Stay Clear of Hamas Militants for Safety
UN spokesperson Stéphane Dujarric confirmed the evacuation notice, stating that “the entire population of Gaza north of Wadi Gaza should relocate to southern Gaza within the next 24 hours.” This directive comes as tensions escalate between Israel and Hamas.
A spokesperson for the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) confirmed the evacuation announcement had been relayed to civilians in Gaza City, emphasizing the importance of this move for the safety of the people and their families.
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) strongly advised civilians to maintain a safe distance from Hamas militants, expressing concern that the militants often exploit civilians as human shields. This precautionary measure aimed to ensure the safety of the civilian population amid the ongoing conflict.
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UN Facilities Included in Evacuation Order
The IDF clarified that their extensive operations in Gaza City will continue in the coming days, with a concerted effort to minimize harm to civilians. They urged civilians to move to the area south of Wadi Gaza for their safety.
Dujarric highlighted that approximately 1.1 million people reside in the region designated for evacuation by the IDF. This order also extends to UN staff and those taking refuge in UN facilities, including schools, health centers, and clinics.
Expressing concern over the potential humanitarian consequences of the evacuation, the UN strongly appeals for the order to be rescinded, emphasizing the devastating impact such a mass movement could have on an already dire situation.
The situation stems from a series of surprise attacks by Hamas militants on Israeli towns on October 7, prompting retaliation from the IDF. The attacks resulted in casualties among the Israeli population, sparking concerns of a potential ground offensive in the Gaza Strip as Israel mobilizes a significant number of reservists. The region remains tense as the situation unfolds.
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