Why are Civilians Evacuating South From Gaza City?

So far, more than 550,000 civilians have left Gaza City and moved southward. At the same time, the 162nd, 98th, and 36th Divisions have completed their entry into Gaza City and begun operating in Hamas’ strongholds within the city.

As part of the Hamas terrorist organization’s modus operandi, the IDF identified attempts to prevent civilians from moving south, which is in violation of international law, while exploiting the civilian population as human shields for terrorist activity.

In recent weeks, the IDF, led by the Southern Command, launched a wide-scale operation to warn the civilian population for their safety, to distance them from areas of combat through a range of operational tools, including voice messages, leaflet drops, text messages, and phone calls. The IDF has also announced the humanitarian area in Khan Yunis and is leading an extensive effort to adapt humanitarian infrastructure in southern Gaza, including expanding field hospitals, repairing and connecting water pipelines and desalination facilities, as well as a continued supply of food, tents, medicine, and medical equipment to the area.

The IDF urges Gazan civilians to follow the official instructions for their safety and to avoid remaining in areas designated as dangerous.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How many civilians left Gaza City?
A: More than 550,000 civilians moved southward from Gaza City.

Q: Which IDF divisions entered Gaza City?
A: The 162nd, 98th, and 36th Divisions completed their entry into Gaza City and began operating there.

Q: What did the IDF say about Hamas and civilian evacuations?
A: The IDF identified attempts by Hamas to prevent civilians from moving south, which it described as part of Hamas’ use of civilians as human shields.

Q: What humanitarian efforts were established in southern Gaza?
A: Efforts included expanding field hospitals, repairing water infrastructure, connecting desalination facilities, and supplying food, medicine, tents, and medical equipment.

Q: How did the IDF warn civilians?
A:  Warnings were delivered through voice messages, leaflet drops, text messages, and phone calls.