The Times of Israel reports that the IDF issued a widespread evacuation order for Gaza. This order calls for the entire city to evacuate as opposed to select areas and buildings, in preparation for a major Gaza offensive to defeat and disarm Hamas in the region.
The order also comes after a terror attack in Jerusalem Hamas claimed responsibility for that killed six. Total evacuation of Gaza is difficult, with reports of Hamas preventing Palestinians from leaving, and some preferring to stay in the combat zones rather than move south to aid encampments.
While pictures out of Gaza showed some leaving to the south, there were no immediate signs of a mass exodus in the wake of Israel’s warnings.
On Sunday, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said some 100,000 people had evacuated Gaza City so far, far short of the city’s estimated one million residents.
Hamas-affiliated media outlets in the Strip reported that dozens of people in Gaza City held a protest, insisting that they would not leave.
Footage showed demonstrators carrying signs reading “We will not leave” and expressing the sentiment that they will only leave when they’re dead.
Public protests are rare in Gaza, and the fact that it was publicized by Hamas media may indicate that the rally was organized by the terror group rather than being a spontaneous demonstration.
As Israel navigates this crossroads that could end the war that has been going on since October 7, 2023, The Fellowship always stands strong in our support for the Holy Land and her people, providing aid to Israelis in need, praying the hostages and their families will be reunited soon, and praying for peace.
