IDF calls on Gaza residents to evacuate to the south

The Israeli Defense Forces calls on all civilians in Gaza to evacuate to the south for their own safety.

The IDF has warned that it will continue to strike Hamas targets.

The statement was published on the morning of October 13, urging civilians to evacuate within 24 hours.

“The IDF calls for the evacuation of all civilians of Gaza City from their homes southwards for their own safety and protection, and to move to the area south of the Wadi Gaza.

The Hamas terrorist organization waged a war against the State of Israel and Gaza City is an area where military operations take place. This evacuation is for your own safety,” the IDF said in a statement.

It is noted that people will be able to return to Gaza City only when an announcement with permission is made. Residents of Gaza are also urged not to approach the security fence with the State of Israel.

The statement emphasizes that Hamas terrorists are hiding in Gaza City in tunnels under houses and in buildings inhabited by innocent civilians.

“Civilians of Gaza City, evacuate south for your own safety and the safety of your families, and distance yourself from Hamas terrorists who are using you as human shields,” the statement of the IDF reads.

Although the warning is addressed specifically to Gaza City, according to an Israeli military official, it applies to all areas in northern Gaza.

The statement came on the eve of the expected ground offensive by the Israel Defense Forces against Hamas terrorists in the Gaza Strip. Previously, Israeli media reported that the ground operation could begin on October 14 or later.

Attack on Israel

On the morning of October 7, Hamas militants invaded Israel from the Gaza Strip, taking control of several border settlements, taking dozens of hostages and killing more than 1,000 people. In response, the IDF launched a large-scale Operation Iron Swords against the militants. The very next day, the country declared a state of war.

בגלי תקיפה עוצמתיים,
עשרות מטוסי קרב של חיל-האוויר תקפו בעוצמה יעדי טרור ברצועת עזה במהלך הלילה, כ-750 מטרות צבאיות ברחבי הרצועה, ביניהן מנהרות תת-קרקעיות של חמאס, מתחמים ומוצבים צבאיים, בתי בכירים ששימשו כמפקדות צבאיות, מחסני אמל"ח, חדרי קשר וחוסלו פעילים בארגוני הטרור. pic.twitter.com/IapxJyQamM

— Israeli Air Force (@IAFsite) October 13, 2023

The Israeli Defense Forces continue to carry out powerful and massive air strikes, primarily against terrorist-related targets in the Gaza Strip.