GAZA: Israel’s military on Tuesday ordered Gaza City residents to evacuate ahead of a new offensive, after Israel warned it would step up its military attacks in the strip in a “mighty hurricane” if Hamas does not free the last hostages it holds.Taking over the city of one million Palestinians complicates ceasefire efforts to end the nearly two-year war as Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his far-right partners follow through with his plan to take on what they have said are Hamas’ two remaining strongholds.
The evacuation orders caused panic and confusion among the residents of Gaza City. Some said they would have no choice but to leave for the south, while the vast majority of others said they would stay as no other place was safe.
Netanyahu warned residents of Gaza City to leave now, saying forces are organising and assembling into Gaza City for a ground “maneuver”.”I say to the residents of Gaza, take this opportunity and listen to me carefully: you have been warned — leave now!” Netanyahu said.