Forced Evacuations and Systematic Destruction
The Israeli military ordered Palestinians in Gaza City to evacuate to Khan Younis’s coastal area on Saturday, claiming it was a "humanitarian zone" with access to food and medical care. However, this directive threatens to displace hundreds of thousands of already traumatized civilians, many of whom have been displaced multiple times since the war began. Before the conflict, Gaza City was home to nearly one million people, representing half of Gaza’s population. Despite Israel’s assurances, the UN and aid groups have repeatedly warned that al-Mawasi is overcrowded, unsafe, and incapable of accommodating new arrivals.
Targeting Civilian Infrastructure
Hours after issuing evacuation warnings, Israeli forces bombed a high-rise tower in Gaza City, alleging without evidence that Hamas used the building for military purposes. Defense Minister Israel Katz publicly celebrated the destruction on social media, sharing a video of the collapse. Hamas and local witnesses denied the military use claims, stating the tower housed displaced families. This strike followed a similar attack on Friday against another high-rise, intensifying what Palestinians describe as a "systematic forced displacement" campaign. Satellite imagery confirms entire neighborhoods have been leveled in recent weeks.
Military Advances and Civilian Resistance
Israel now controls 40% of Gaza City, with forces advancing toward the city center. Despite orders to flee, many residents refuse to leave, citing Israel’s targeting of evacuation routes and previously designated "safe zones". One resident, Um Nader, stated, "Tens of thousands who left their homes were killed by Israel too, so why bother?". The UN estimates nearly one million people remain in the city, facing famine and relentless bombardment.
Political Divisions and Hostage Crisis
Prime Minister Netanyahu’s order to seize Gaza City has sparked rare public divisions within Israel’s leadership. IDF Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir opposed the operation, warning it would lead to full military occupation and endanger hostages. Hamas released a video on Friday showing two captives pleading for their lives, stating they were held in Gaza City and feared Israeli strikes. While Hamas has offered a truce for hostage exchanges, Netanyahu insists on an "all-or-nothing" deal demanding Hamas’s surrender.
International Isolation and Humanitarian Crisis
With over 64,000 Palestinians killed and 370 dead from starvation, Israel faces growing international condemnation. Amnesty International called for an immediate halt to the offensive, noting "scores of civilians" killed in recent days. U.S. Senators Van Hollen and Merkley accused Israel of "ethnic cleansing" in Gaza. Despite U.S. President Trump’s claims of "very deep" negotiations with Hamas, his administration continues to support Israel’s military campaign.