Israel Issues New Evacuation Orders as ‘Safe Areas’ of Gaza Come Under Attack
The Escalation in Northern Gaza
The Israeli military has issued new evacuation orders for Palestinians in northern Gaza, particularly in the districts of Beit Hanoon and Beit Lahiya. These areas have been among the most affected by Israel’s ground invasion that began 10 months ago. On Wednesday, army spokesperson Avichay Adraee communicated these orders, emphasizing that Hamas and other groups were “firing rockets from your area” towards Israel and warning that the military “will act forcefully and immediately against them.”
“For your own safety, evacuate immediately to the known shelters in the centre of Gaza City,” Adraee urged in a message to Palestinian residents.
Preparations for Ground Operations
Reports from Israel’s Channel 12 indicate that the army is preparing for a “large-scale” ground operation in Gaza City. This preparation comes in the wake of an Israeli air raid on a house in Gaza City that killed three Palestinians on Wednesday, according to medical sources. Al Jazeera correspondents reported that at least two other individuals were killed in air raids in the city. One victim was found in Gaza City’s Daraj neighbourhood, while another was recovered in the Zeitoun area.
Destruction in Central Gaza
The overnight Israeli attacks also targeted central Gaza, specifically Deir el-Balah, where two homes and tents sheltering displaced people were destroyed. These attacks resulted in the deaths of three people and wounded ten others. Many Palestinians had moved to Deir el-Balah after Israeli forces designated it as a “safe zone.” However, this supposed safety has now been compromised, forcing residents to relocate once again.
“Most of the people here have been displaced numerous times — from Rafah, Khan Younis, and central Gaza — now they’re all crammed into Deir el-Balah,” one resident told Al Jazeera. The sentiment of betrayal and frustration is palpable among the residents, who feel that the claim of a safe zone is merely propaganda.
