Israel Orders 1.1 Million to Flee North Gaza in 24-Hour Deadline
The Israeli military has issued a stark warning: all residents north of Wadi Gaza must evacuate to southern Gaza within 24 hours. This affects some 1.1 million people — nearly half of Gaza’s population — including the packed streets of Gaza City.
UN Sounds Alarm Over Humanitarian Disaster
The order came just before midnight local time, stirring grave concerns from the United Nations. A UN spokesperson said, “The United Nations considers it impossible for such a movement to take place without devastating humanitarian consequences.”
With Gaza already in crisis, the UN’s Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs called for an emergency fund of $294 million (£241 million) to support 1.2 million Palestinians caught in the fallout.
- Over 84,000 Gazans are now homeless
- More than 423,000 lack adequate shelter
- Severe water shortages plague the region
- About 50,000 pregnant women face dire healthcare challenges amid attacks
Earlier this year, the UN had requested $502 million for Palestinian aid, but less than half has been delivered.
Israel Prepares for Ground Invasion Amid Airstrikes
The evacuation order arrives as Israel piles troops, tanks, and heavy artillery along Gaza’s border, fueling fears of a ground offensive. Since Saturday’s surprise Hamas attack, relentless Israeli airstrikes have hammered the Strip.
Hamas’ military wing, the Qassam Brigades, vowed fierce resistance. Spokesperson Abu Obeida declared their forces ready to defend Gaza with a strength “unlike anything Israel has faced before.”
White Phosphorus Claims Ignite Controversy
Amid the violence, Human Rights Watch has accused Israel of using white phosphorus munitions in Gaza and Lebanon — weapons known for causing devastating burns and civilian harm, especially in densely packed areas.
Israel’s military denied using white phosphorus in Gaza but remained silent on Lebanon. HRW backed its claim with videos showing white phosphorus explosions and AFP images capturing eerie white streaks in the skies. While not outright banned, its use is heavily restricted due to the risk to civilians.
This marks not the first accusation against Israel for white phosphorus use; rights groups condemned its deployment in 2008-2009 conflicts, prompting Israel in 2013 to say it would phase out the substance’s use.
As the crisis deepens, all eyes are on Gaza’s desperate scramble for safety amid mounting violence and a looming humanitarian catastrophe.
