Israel Defense Forces Order Urgent Evacuation of Khan Younis

Amid intensifying military operations in southern Gaza, residents of Khan Younis have been urgently ordered to evacuate by the Israel Defense Forces (IDF), citing an impending unprecedented attack in Gaza. The evacuation mandate, one of the most extensive issued in recent months, directs civilians toward the coastal area of al-Mawasi. The warning was accompanied by stark language from the IDF, calling the region a “dangerous combat zone.”

The directive has left thousands scrambling for safety, many without access to transportation, shelter, or essential supplies. Families have been separated in the chaos, 13-year-old Tasneem Barakeh fled while her father was out searching for food. “We don’t know where he is,” she cried, “please, just bring us my father.” Such scenes of distress are increasingly common as the humanitarian situation worsens.

The offensive, dubbed Operation Gideon’s Chariots, is part of a broader strategy to dismantle what Israel describes as the operational capacity of militant groups in the area. Over 100 Palestinians have been killed in the last 24 hours alone, health officials report.

Massive offensivefrom Israel Defense Forces adds to Gaza’s humanitarian catastrophe

The IDF claims to have hit 160 targets across the Gaza Strip in a single day, including underground tunnels, weapons stores, and anti-tank sites. However, strikes have also impacted civilian sites, one bomb hit a school sheltering displaced families, killing seven. Another attack struck a warehouse of medical supplies at Nasser Hospital, further crippling Gaza’s already devastated healthcare system.

Despite international pressure, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu reaffirmed Israel’s goal to take “full control” of Gaza, asserting that significant progress is being made. His remarks came alongside a limited easing of the blockade, allowing minimal food into the territory following lobbying from U.S. allies.

The ongoing conflict, now in its eighth month, began after Hamas-led attacks on October 7, 2023. More than 53,000 Palestinians have died since, according to Gaza health officials. As Israeli forces push deeper into the territory, calls grow louder from both local and international groups warning of dire consequences for civilians and the remaining hostages held in Gaza.