byiShook Opinion
Oct 13, 2023 - 02:57
A spokesperson from the UN warns that the evacuation order impacts 1.1 million individuals and may lead to severe humanitarian challenges. This comes as there are predictions of a possible Israeli ground operation.
Late Thursday night, the United Nations received a significant notice from the Israeli Defence Forces (IDF), stating that all residents in northern Gaza should leave the area in the next 24 hours and relocate to the southern part.
The UN's announcement explained that this evacuation covers everyone living north of Wadi Gaza, a river that divides Gaza into north and south.
This directive is applicable to both Gazans taking shelter in UN facilities and UN staff. The UN Secretary General's spokesperson emphasized that about 1.1 million individuals are affected, and executing such a task would pose substantial humanitarian challenges.
Following this, at 7:30 am in Tel Aviv, an IDF spokesperson issued a video update specifically addressing Gaza City residents. The message strongly advised them to move south of the Gaza river for their own safety.
Reports from Reuters estimate the population of Gaza City at around one million, while Al Jazeera suggests it to be approximately 700,000.
The update did not specify the exact time Palestinians have for evacuation. Colonel Jonathan Conricus, an IDF spokesperson, mentioned, "We understand that this will take time, it's not an easy process."
The IDF strongly advises all residents of Gaza City to promptly vacate their residences, heading southward for their own safety and protection, and relocating to the area south of Wadi Gaza, the Gaza River, as indicated on the accompanying map.
The Hamas terrorist organization has instigated hostilities against the state of Israel, and Gaza City is now an active military zone. This evacuation is a vital precaution for your well-being. You will only be permitted to return to Gaza City upon receiving further notice. Please do not approach the security fence of Israel. Hamas operatives are concealed in Gaza City, utilizing tunnels, residences, and buildings populated with innocent civilians, effectively using them as human shields.
Over the next few days, the IDF will persist in its operations in Gaza City, ensuring the safety of civilians remains a paramount concern, and every effort will be made to prevent harm to them.
Live Update Starts From Here...
Get a live view of the Gaza skyline following the recent rocket launches by Hamas into Israel. Source: Reuters.