IDF spokesperson Daniel Hagari, in a statement, advised civilians in northern Gaza and Gaza City to temporarily relocate to a safer area south of Wadi Gaza where they can access water, food, and medicine.
This new directive was issued as the death toll in Gaza crossed 8,000, with half of the casualties being children, according to the Gaza Health Ministry led by Hamas.
He also mentioned that humanitarian efforts in Gaza, led by Egypt and the United States, will be expanding in the coming days. It’s worth noting that the video posted on X (formerly Twitter) was recorded on Saturday, and an IDF spokesperson confirmed that the humanitarian efforts would be extended on Sunday.
The conflict in Gaza began when Hamas militants crossed the Gaza border on October 7, leading to a significant Israeli bombing campaign that resulted in casualties, including civilians and hostages. Despite appeals for an end to the violence, Israel continued its operations, both on the ground and from the air.
Hamas reported a significant number of casualties in strikes on two refugee camps in northern Gaza, while Israel’s Home Front Command warned of missile and rocket attacks in southern cities.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that the war in Gaza is expected to be prolonged, with the goals being to dismantle Hamas and secure the release of hostages held since October 7.
Israel’s Defense Minister, Yoav Gallant, declared a new phase in the conflict, mentioning that Israeli forces had expanded their ground operations. He stated that the operation would continue until further instructions were given.
The IDF spokesperson confirmed that the military operation had undergone an expansion, following previous targeted raids. Although a major ground offensive to seize significant territory was not yet underway, the IDF called on Gazans to move south in anticipation of further operations.
The Israeli military also advised civilians in Gaza to move to the southern part of the territory, where humanitarian efforts were set to expand.
Additionally, Palestine Telecommunications (Paltel) and NetBlocks Telecommunication Company announced the gradual restoration of telecommunications services in Gaza.
The World Health Organization (WHO) expressed concern about the intense bombardment in Gaza and reported a lack of contact with their staff and health facilities in the region. Several United Nations agencies also reported difficulties in communicating with their local staff in Gaza.
