The evacuation of the east of the city
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) has issued an urgent appeal to residents and displaced people in the neighborhoods of the eastern area of the city of Rafah, in the southern Gaza Strip, to gradually leave this area and head towards the coastal area of Al-Mawasi. This evacuation will be carried out gradually and will be carried out through the use of SMS messages, leaflets, phone calls and broadcasts in Arabic by the media. This decision has been taken in the face of an imminent offensive in which Israeli troops will use extreme force against terrorist organizations in residential areas.
Expansion of the safe humanitarian zone
In addition, the IDF has announced an expansion of the considered safe humanitarian zone in Al-Mawasi, located on the coast. This expanded humanitarian area includes field hospitals, tents, more food, water, medicine and additional supplies. Although shelling has also been reported there since it was designated a humanitarian safe zone, it has been expanded to accommodate the increase in aid arriving in Gaza.
International reactions and warnings
The international community has strongly opposed this operation, expressing reluctance even from the United States, Israel’s main ally. Israeli authorities have warned the people of Gaza that the city remains a dangerous combat zone and have urged the population to refrain from returning to the north and to stay away from the eastern and southern security fence.