Israel Issues Deadline for Gaza Evacuation
Israel has given residents in the north of the Gaza Strip until 2 pm to evacuate as the death toll from airstrikes reaches over 2,200.
The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) had earlier granted 1.1 million civilians just 24 hours to escape to the south, with the deadline ending at 3 am BST.
Gazans have been instructed to leave safely between 10 am and 4 pm local time.
Mixed Reactions to Evacuation Order
Hamas has urged civilians to ignore the evacuation order, and some are refusing to leave.
The situation has left residents facing a difficult decision, with nowhere seemingly safe.
Tanks and elite commandos are conducting “localised” raids into Gaza to target Hamas militants and weaponry, while tanks mass on the border in preparation for a ground offensive.
Hamas Commanders Killed
Israel has confirmed the killing of two top Hamas commanders. Murad Abu Murad, head of the terror group’s aerial operations, was struck by fighter jets.
Ali Qadi, who led forces involved in terrorist strikes on Israeli settlements, was located and killed in a drone strike by military intelligence.
Humanitarian Crisis and Criticism
The UN agency overseeing relief efforts has warned that over 2 million people in Gaza are at risk as essential resources, including water, run out.
Aid agencies and the UN have criticized the evacuation order, deeming it impossible. Doctors Without Borders has condemned the indiscriminate attacks on healthcare facilities and civilians in Gaza.
International Reactions and Concerns
International figures have expressed concerns about the situation. US President Joe Biden, while supportive of Israel, has emphasized the need to address the humanitarian crisis.
Saudi Arabia, in a rare rebuke of Israel, has called for the end of the forced displacement of Palestinians and attacks on civilians.
The Archbishop of Canterbury, Justin Welby, has appealed for a humanitarian corridor in Gaza, highlighting the suffering faced by innocent civilians.
Complex and Uncertain Situation
The situation remains complex and uncertain as the conflict escalates.
Gaza’s population is trapped amid the conflict, and the evacuation order has presented a daunting challenge.
The conflict continues to draw international attention and criticism, with calls for a ceasefire and humanitarian relief.
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