The IDF claimed that forces of Palestinian movement Hamas "are hiding in Gaza City inside tunnels underneath houses and inside buildings populated with innocent Gazan civilians," adding that it will "continue to operate significantly in Gaza City and make extensive efforts to avoid harming civilians."
"The IDF calls for the evacuation of all civilians of Gaza City from their homes southwards for their own safety and protection and move to the area south of the Wadi Gaza," the IDF said on Telegram, adding that the city's population will be able to return to their homes "only when another announcement permitting it is made."
The IDF also called on civilians not to approach "the area of the security fence with the State of Israel."
On October 7, the Palestinian group Hamas carried out a sudden and large-scale rocket attack against Israel from the Gaza Strip. This prompted Israel to declare a state of war on the following day, and launch counter-strikes against Hamas. On October 9, Israel imposed a total blockade on the Gaza Strip, resulting in a disruption of supplies such as water, food, and fuel.
Both Israel and Palestine have reported over 1,000 deaths and thousands of injuries as a result of the escalation.
