Israel Orders Evacuation of Gaza Humanitarian Zone

Planned Operation in Khan Younis

Israel’s military has issued an evacuation order for a crowded section of Gaza designated as a humanitarian zone. The evacuation is part of a planned operation targeting Hamas militants in Khan Younis, including the makeshift tent camp area of Muwasi, where thousands have sought refuge.

Response to Rocket Fire

The evacuation order follows rocket fire that Israel claims originates from the area. This marks the second evacuation in a week for this designated safe zone for Palestinians fleeing conflict from other parts of Gaza. Many residents have been displaced multiple times during Israel’s air and ground campaign.

Airstrikes and Casualties

Following the evacuation order, multiple Israeli airstrikes hit the Khan Younis area on Monday, resulting in at least 70 deaths, according to figures from Gaza’s Health Ministry, citing Nasser Hospital.

Conditions in Humanitarian Zones

The 60-square-kilometer humanitarian zone, where Israel has directed Palestinians to seek safety, is heavily populated with tent camps. These camps face severe shortages in sanitation, medical facilities, and aid, according to reports from the United Nations and humanitarian groups. Approximately 1.8 million Palestinians are currently sheltering in this zone, based on Israeli estimates.

Additional Airstrikes

In central Gaza’s Zawaida, overnight airstrikes killed at least five people, including a family of five, confirmed by Deir al Balah’s Al Aqsa hospital.

Impact of the Conflict

The conflict has resulted in the deaths of over 39,100 Palestinians, as reported by Gaza’s Health Ministry, which does not differentiate between combatants and civilians. The U.N. estimated in February that about 17,000 children in Gaza are unaccompanied, a number likely to have increased.

Origin of the Conflict

The current war began with an attack by Hamas militants on southern Israel on Oct. 7, killing 1,200 people, primarily civilians, and capturing approximately 250 hostages. According to Israeli authorities, around 115 hostages remain in Gaza, with a third believed to be deceased.