Impending assault on Gaza City imminent, Israeli authorities urge residents to evacuate
In a series of developments, Israel's decision to escalate its military operations in Gaza City has drawn criticism from the international community. The offensive, part of Operation Gideon's Chariots II, has been met with opposition from several nations, including France, Canada, Australia, Germany, and the United Kingdom.
France, which plans to recognise a Palestinian state this month at the United Nations, has also expressed its opposition to Israel expanding operations in Gaza. The aforementioned nations issued a joint statement, stating that Israel's plans violate international law and urged Jerusalem to reverse its decision and not implement it.
U.K. Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney have both urged Israel to reconsider its decision, expressing concern over the potential humanitarian impacts of the offensive. Germany has gone a step further and stopped some arms exports to Israel after the expansion announcement, while South Africa has filed a genocide lawsuit against Israel at The Hague.
Israel, however, has designated a humanitarian area in Khan Younis, which includes field hospitals, water pipelines, desalination facilities, and supplies of food, tents, medicines, and medical equipment. The Israeli government has also urged Palestinians to leave several areas of Gaza City. IDF Spokesperson Col. Avichay Adraee issued a warning about a specific area in Gaza City, highlighting one building and stating it contains Hamas terrorist infrastructure. Adraee advised Palestinians to evacuate the area southward to Al-Mawasi, Khan Yunis.
In response to the Israeli airstrike on a high-rise building in Gaza City after a prior warning was issued, thousands of Palestinians are fleeing northern Gaza towards the south. COGAT, the Israeli military body responsible for civilian affairs in the occupied territories, is working with international partners to ensure humanitarian supplies are available.
Rachel Wolf, a breaking news writer for our website Digital and FOX Business, is closely monitoring the situation and will provide updates as they become available.
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