The Israeli military on Saturday called on residents of Gaza City to evacuate to a designated “humanitarian zone” in the south, ahead of an anticipated ground offensive aimed at seizing control of the densely populated urban center.
In a message posted on social media, army spokesperson Avichay Adraee urged civilians to move to Al-Mawasi, a southern coastal area previously designated by Israel as a safe zone.
“Take this opportunity to move early to the Al-Mawasi humanitarian zone and join the thousands who have already relocated there,” Adraee said.
He did not specify a timeline for the offensive. A separate military spokesperson previously indicated that no advance notice would be given in order to preserve operational secrecy.
The United Nations estimates that around one million people are currently in and around Gaza City. UN officials have warned of a looming humanitarian catastrophe if Israeli forces proceed with plans to retake the city.
The push toward Gaza City comes amid growing domestic and international pressure on Israel to halt its military campaign and reach a ceasefire in the war, which began after the October 7, 2023 Hamas-led attack on southern Israel.
Hamas last month accepted a ceasefire proposal that included a temporary truce and a phased release of hostages held in Gaza. However, Israel rejected the offer, insisting that Hamas must release all hostages at once, disarm completely, and relinquish control of Gaza — terms the Palestinian group has so far refused.
In a separate statement on Saturday, the Israeli army said the Al-Mawasi area includes essential infrastructure such as field hospitals, water pipelines, desalination facilities, and a continued supply of food, tents, and medical supplies. The military said these humanitarian efforts are being carried out in coordination with the UN and other international organizations and would continue “in parallel to the expansion of the ground operation.”
While Al-Mawasi was declared a safe zone early in the conflict, the Israeli military has conducted airstrikes there, claiming it was targeting Hamas operatives embedded among civilians.
Many Palestinians, particularly those in Gaza City, remain skeptical of Israeli assurances. Dozens interviewed by AFP in recent weeks said they see no truly safe place in the territory. Some have expressed deep reluctance to evacuate again after already being displaced multiple times during the conflict.
“I would rather die than be displaced again,” one Gaza City resident told AFP — a sentiment echoed by many.
AFP
