'Return Only If...': Israel's Evacuation Ultimatum To 1.1 Million Gazans, Hamas Orders Residents To 'Stay Put'

Israel’s military has sent out evacuation orders for more than 1 million people to relocate south within 24 hours.

Israel’s military has sent out evacuation orders for more than 1 million people to relocate south within 24 hours.

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As the war between Israel and Gaza rages on, Israel’s military has sent out evacuation orders for more than 1 million people to relocate south within 24 hours ahead of a feared ground offensive with the aim of eradicating the Hamas militant group after its surprise attack on Israel.

In the announcement, the Israel Military said that the people would be able to return only when another announcement is made giving the required permission. “You will be able to return to Gaza City only when another announcement permitting it is made. Do not approach the area of the security fence with the State of Israel,” Israeli military said. 

IDF announcement sent to civilians of Gaza City:

The IDF calls for the evacuation of all civilians of Gaza City from their homes southwards for their own safety and protection and move to the area south of the Wadi Gaza, as shown on the map.

The Hamas terrorist organization…

— Israel Defense Forces (@IDF) October 13, 2023

Following the evacuation orders, Hamas has asked people to stay put and ignore the evacuation orders from Israel. Hamas authority for refugee affairs on Friday called on residents of the north of the territory to “remain steadfast” in their homes. “Remain steadfast in your homes and to stand firm in the face of this disgusting psychological war waged by the occupation”, the authorities said, as quoted by AP.

The United Nations has claimed that 400,000 Palestinians have already been displaced.

The Israel military had said that Hamas terrorists are hiding in Gaza City inside tunnels underneath houses and inside buildings populated with innocent Gazan civilians. "Civilians of Gaza City, evacuate south for your own safety and the safety of your families and distance yourself from Hamas terrorists who are using you as human shields," it said.

"In the following days, the IDF will continue to operate significantly in Gaza City and make extensive efforts to avoid harming civilians," Israel Military further stated.