Panic Spreads in Gaza as Israel Orders New Evacuations in Crowded City
A wave of fear swept through central Gaza on Sunday after the Israeli military ordered immediate evacuations from parts of Deir al-Balah, a city that until now had seen no ground invasion in the nearly two-year-long war between Israel and Hamas.
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) urged residents and displaced families living in the southwest districts of Deir al-Balah to leave their shelters and move towards al-Mawasi, a narrow coastal area already overwhelmed with people seeking safety.
The evacuation announcement was delivered by air, as leaflets rained down over the city. The move has caused confusion and distress among tens of thousands of Palestinians, many of whom are already living in makeshift tents. It also added to the growing fears of Israeli families who believe their loved ones—hostages taken during the initial Hamas attack—may be held in that area.
Although the IDF has carried out several airstrikes in Deir al-Balah, it has not yet launched a ground offensive there. Israeli officials have said their hesitation to enter may be tied to intelligence that hostages could be held nearby. Of the 50 hostages believed to still be in Gaza, at least 20 are thought to be alive.
"The Israeli army continues to act with full force to dismantle terrorist networks," the IDF said in a statement. "These neighborhoods had not been entered until now."
Sunday’s evacuation orders are the latest in a long string of warnings issued during the 21-month conflict. Most of Gaza’s two million residents have already been forced to flee multiple times due to ongoing military operations.
Meanwhile, in Gaza City, tragedy struck as crowds gathered near Shifa Hospital to await incoming UN aid trucks. Health officials reported that more than 40 people were killed and dozens injured by Israeli fire. Similar deadly incidents were reported at other aid distribution points in southern Gaza.
As the war continues with no clear end in sight, civilians in Gaza are left facing constant upheaval, deepening trauma, and dwindling safe zones.
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