Israel Orders New Evacuations In Northern Gaza As Ground Operation Looms

Israeli military has issued new evacuation orders for Palestinians in northern Gaza as preparations for a potential large-scale ground operation in Gaza City intensify. Army spokesperson Avichay Adraee announced evacuations for districts in Beit Hanoon and Beit Lahiya, areas heavily impacted by Israel’s initial invasion ten months ago. The military has warned that it will act forcefully against Hamas and other militant groups allegedly firing rockets from these areas, urging residents to move immediately to shelters in central Gaza City.

Casualties and Destruction

On Wednesday, Israeli airstrikes in Gaza City resulted in the deaths of at least five Palestinians, including three in a targeted house raid. Additional air raids in Gaza City’s Daraj and Zeitoun neighborhoods, as well as overnight attacks in Deir el-Balah, central Gaza, have caused further casualties and destruction. In Deir el-Balah, which had been designated as a “safe zone” for displaced persons, attacks killed three and injured ten, displacing many who had previously moved from other areas like Rafah and Khan Younis.

Growing Concerns and Ongoing Conflict

There is increasing fear of a broader offensive as concentrated air and artillery attacks persist, particularly on Deir el-Balah. Al Jazeera correspondents report concerns that the area, which remains relatively intact, may soon face more extensive attacks. The escalation comes amid ongoing violence following the assassination of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran on July 31 and the expected response from Iran and Hezbollah.

According to Gaza’s Health Ministry, Israeli military actions have resulted in 24 deaths and 110 injuries in the latest 24-hour period. Since October 7, the conflict has claimed at least 39,677 lives and wounded 91,645 in Gaza, with 1,139 fatalities and over 200 captives reported in Israel.