Amid escalating tensions between Israel and Hamas, the Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) have reissued a call to the residents of Gaza, specifically those in the northern region, to evacuate for their immediate safety. IDF spokesperson Daniel Hagari emphasised the need for civilians to temporarily relocate south, away from the impending operation.
Hagari explained that once the intense hostilities cease, residents will be allowed to move back to northern Gaza. The IDF has specifically instructed civilians to move south of Wadi Gaza, as they believe Hamas has been endangering civilians by positioning their forces in schools, mosques, and hospitals.
“The impending IDF operation is set to neutralise the threat of Hamas with precision and intensity,” Hagari stated. He further urged the residents, saying, “Your window to act is closing; move south for your own safety. This is not a mere precaution but an urgent plea for the safety of the civilians in Gaza.”
In response to the ongoing conflict, the Hamas-led health ministry in Gaza reported an increase in the number of casualties. The ministry claimed that the death toll in the territory has risen to 7,650, with an additional 19,450 people injured. Tragically, since the conflict began on October 7, 111 people have been killed in the West Bank, with 1,950 injured.
Meanwhile, Turkish President’s Recep Tayyip Erdogan addressed a massive pro-Palestinian rally in Istanbul, where he reiterated his claims that Israel is an occupier of Palestine and defended Hamas against accusations of terrorism. Erdogan’s comments further strained the already tense relationship between Turkey and Israel. The rally was estimated to have been attended by hundreds of thousands of people.
Turkey has called on Israel to listen to the collective voice of the international community and halt its attacks on the Gaza Strip. In a statement, Turkey’s foreign ministry urged Israel to cease its offensive actions and give peace a chance. The ministry emphasised that a fair solution to the Palestinian problem is crucial for achieving lasting peace and stability in the Middle East. It also highlighted that Israel’s own security cannot be guaranteed without a resolution to the ongoing dispute.
