The Israeli military has issued an unprecedented directive, ordering approximately 1.1 million Palestinians in northern Gaza to evacuate their homes within 24 hours. This massive relocation order, affecting nearly half of Gaza's population, signals a potential major ground offensive in response to last weekend's attacks by Hamas militants.
The United Nations has urgently appealed for the rescindment of this order, warning of catastrophic humanitarian repercussions should such a large-scale displacement proceed. "The consequences would be devastating," stated UN spokesperson Stephane Dujarric, highlighting the impossibility of moving so many vulnerable people without causing a severe humanitarian crisis.
Impossible Timeline for Civilians
With the 24-hour deadline looming, aid organisations have emphasised the practical impossibility of evacuating such a vast number of people, including the elderly, children, and hospital patients. The order affects the entire population north of Wadi Gaza, including the densely populated Gaza City.
Lynn Hastings, UN Humanitarian Coordinator for Palestine, stressed that such a mass movement "cannot take place without devastating humanitarian consequences." The warning comes as Gaza faces a complete siege, with electricity, food, water, and fuel supplies cut off.
Military Preparations and International Response
Israel's evacuation order appears to precede an expected ground invasion into Gaza. Military spokespersons have confirmed preparations for "significant military operations" in the region. The Israeli Defence Forces stated they would make "extensive efforts to avoid harming civilians" while targeting Hamas militants.
The international community watches with growing concern as diplomatic efforts continue. The UN Security Council is scheduled to discuss the escalating crisis behind closed doors, though previous attempts to reach a consensus statement have failed.
Humanitarian Crisis Deepens
The situation in Gaza has deteriorated rapidly since Israel imposed a complete blockade following Hamas's surprise attack. With borders sealed and essential supplies dwindling, the evacuation order compounds what aid agencies describe as an already dire humanitarian situation.
Hospitals are running on backup generators with limited fuel, while food and clean water supplies are critically low. The International Committee of the Red Cross has warned that the human cost of this conflict will be unbearable without immediate humanitarian access and protection for civilians.
