Israel's military has issued urgent warnings to medical personnel and international aid organizations to prepare for the mass evacuation of Gaza City's million residents as it gears up for a significant offensive. Reports indicate that adjustments are being made to medical facilities in southern Gaza to accommodate patients, according to an official statement. However, Gaza's Hamas-run health ministry has dismissed the Israeli plans, arguing that they threaten the integrity of a healthcare system already on the brink of collapse.
The United Nations and various humanitarian groups continue to express their determination to remain in Gaza City, pledging to assist those who are unable or unwilling to evacuate. Despite the complex situation, intense bombardment was noted in the eastern parts of the city, one day after the Israeli military declared the commencement of its offensive. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is in discussions with security officials to finalize military strategies, amid domestic and international criticism of the impending operations.
The Israeli military has outlined its plans to evacuate the entire population of Gaza City, relocating them to shelters in the south ahead of troop movements into the urban area. Officials stated that they have conducted initial warning calls to medical authorities and international organizations, emphasizing improvements to hospital infrastructure in southern Gaza to manage the influx of sick and injured patients. They assured medical personnel of available resources, including field hospitals and medical equipment.
Despite the assurances, the health ministry in Gaza has strongly opposed any measures that threaten its fragile healthcare system, arguing that it would deny over a million people their right to medical care and put countless lives at risk. Presently, 18 out of Gaza's 36 hospitals are reported to be semi-functional, with many already operating beyond capacity as they face the challenge of accepting more patients.
Eyewitness accounts from Gaza City indicate severe Israeli airstrikes, with reports of at least 48 fatalities from recent attacks across the territory. Some residents dismiss the idea of relocating, debating the safety of designated "safe zones" in the south amidst ongoing violence. Many inhabitants express a sentiment of despair, preferring to remain in their homes rather than fleeing.
Rallies have taken place in Gaza City, where residents demand an immediate cessation of hostilities and denounce Israeli intentions for further displacement. Adapting to the bloodshed and community turmoil, emotionally charged voices are echoing calls for peace and a halt to further conflict.
In neighboring Tel Aviv, families of Israeli hostages held by Hamas are urging their government to consider a proposed ceasefire that could facilitate the return of some captives. Mediators from Qatar and Egypt are working tirelessly to negotiate a truce and broker the release of hostages while Israel insists on comprehensive agreements that secure the release of all captured individuals.
UN Secretary-General António Guterres has underscored the urgent need for a ceasefire to prevent what he states would be inevitable human suffering in light of the military's plans in Gaza City. Following inflammatory statements from the Israeli military, which indicated that offensive operations had begun and would increase in severity, regional leaders and international mediators scramble to avert further escalation, while the humanitarian toll continues to escalate, with over 62,000 reported deaths in Gaza.
