The Imminent Storm: Israeli Military Orders Full Evacuation of Gaza City in Preparation for a Major Offensive

The Israeli military issued an urgent and comprehensive evacuation order on Tuesday morning for all residents of Gaza City. The directive instructs them to immediately proceed to the "humanitarian zone" in Al-Mawasi via the Al-Rasheed axis. This evacuation is a preliminary step for an imminent and intense Israeli attack aimed at gaining full control of the largest urban center in the Strip. This action, which has sparked widespread international concern, reflects Israel's determination to decide the battle in this crucial area.

In a post on "X," Israeli military spokesman Avichay Adraee confirmed the necessity of the immediate evacuation for residents of all Gaza neighborhoods, from the Old City in the east to the sea in the west. He clarified that the military will operate in Gaza City "with great force," just as it has in other parts of the Strip.

These developments follow strong statements from senior Israeli officials. On Monday, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced that the Israeli Air Force had destroyed 50 residential towers in Gaza over the past two days, describing it as "just a prelude" to a broader military operation. Netanyahu issued a direct warning to Gaza's residents, stating: "You have been warned, get out of there." For his part, Israeli Defense Minister Yisrael Katz renewed his threats against Gaza City, writing on "X" on Monday: "Today a massive hurricane will strike the skies of Gaza City, and the roofs of the terror towers will shake," considering it a "final warning" to Hamas leaders.

Taking control of Gaza City, home to one million Palestinians, presents a significant challenge, especially amid ongoing international efforts for a ceasefire. Netanyahu insists that the ultimate goal for Israel is to defeat Hamas, while the Palestinian movement asserts it will not lay down its arms until an independent Palestinian state is established. Despite mediation efforts by the United States, Qatar, and Egypt, no agreement has been reached to end the war and free the remaining hostages.

Intense Israeli military operations and shelling of the city have been ongoing for weeks. The United Nations recently declared a state of famine in Gaza, warning that 500,000 people are facing "catastrophic" conditions. The war, which erupted on October 7, 2023, following a Hamas attack on southern Israel, resulted in the deaths of 1,219 Israelis. In response, Israeli military operations in Gaza have led to the deaths of 64,522 people, mostly civilians, according to the Gaza Ministry of Health. Israeli authorities state they have taken control of 75% of the Strip, and that 20 of the remaining 48 hostages are still alive.