Israel Imposes 24-Hour Ultimatum on Gaza City Civilians Amid Mounting Tensions

In the wake of escalating tensions, Israel’s military has issued a 24-hour ultimatum to over one million civilians in Gaza City, demanding they relocate southward, while amassing tanks near the Gaza Strip, signaling an imminent ground invasion.

Defence Minister Yoav Gallant declared, “Now is a time for war,” in response to the deadliest attack by Palestinian militants, marked by ongoing Israeli airstrikes on Gaza.

The Israeli military has asserted its intention to undertake “significant operations” in Gaza City in the coming days. However, civilians will only be permitted to return once another announcement is made.

The United Nations expressed deep concerns about the feasibility of such a large-scale civilian relocation, emphasizing the potential humanitarian fallout. U.N. spokesperson Stephane Dujarric pleaded for the order’s rescission, highlighting the catastrophic consequences that could arise.

Israel’s ambassador to the U.N., Gilad Erdan, criticized the U.N.’s response to Israel’s early warning to Gaza residents, labeling it “shameful.”

Meanwhile, a Hamas official dismissed Israel’s warning as “fake propaganda,” urging citizens not to heed it.

Israel has vowed to eliminate the Hamas militant group, which was responsible for the attacks on Saturday. However, a ground invasion of Gaza carries significant risks, with Hamas holding numerous hostages abducted during the assault.

Public broadcaster Kan reported that the Israeli death toll has risen to over 1,300, while Gaza authorities claim that more than 1,500 Palestinians have been killed.

The situation in Gaza, home to 2.3 million people, has grown increasingly dire. The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) warned that fuel powering emergency generators in Gaza’s hospitals could run out within hours. Additionally, the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) has sounded the alarm about dangerously low food and fresh water supplies.

“The human suffering caused by this escalation is abhorrent, and I implore the sides to reduce the suffering of civilians,” urged ICRC regional director Fabrizio Carboni.