Gaza families flee after fresh Israel orders
Palestinian families evacuated from northern Gaza and Jabalia to the Sheikh Radwan area following new evacuation orders issued by the Israeli army. The military's directive came as it prepared for intensified fighting against Hamas, coinciding with U.S. President Donald Trump's call for an end to the ongoing conflict and renewed efforts to broker a ceasefire.
The evacuation order affected the Jabalia area and most districts of Gaza City. Reports from medics and residents indicated that Israeli bombardments escalated in Jabalia, resulting in the destruction of several homes and at least six fatalities. In Khan Younis, five people were killed in an airstrike on a tent encampment, while at least 12 others died in separate military strikes and gunfire across the enclave, bringing the total death toll for the day to at least 23.
The military escalation occurs as Arab mediators, including Egypt and Qatar, supported by the United States, initiate a new ceasefire effort aimed at halting the 20-month-long conflict and securing the release of Israeli and foreign hostages held by Hamas. The evacuation has led to a significant humanitarian crisis, with tens of thousands of Palestinians fleeing southward towards Al-Mawasi in Khan Younis, designated by Israel as a humanitarian zone. However, both residents and United Nations officials assert that no area in Gaza is truly safe.
The journey south is perilous, with ongoing Israeli bombardments along evacuation routes. Many families, having been displaced multiple times, express exhaustion and despair over their repeated relocations. Internationally, there is growing concern over the situation, with President Trump urging both sides to reach an agreement.
