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32 INTERNATIONAL AWEMainta Dialuna, 16 October 2023
Israel Prepares for “Significant Military
Operations” in Gaza as Civilians Evacuate
IN a recent development, Israel has announced its intent many families now cramped into a smaller territory within
to launch “significant military operations” in the Gaza Strip the already densely populated region.
once the civilian population has been safely evacuated.
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) conveyed this information Tens of thousands of Palestinians have been following the
through Lt. Colonel Jonathan Conricus, the IDF spokes- Israeli military’s instructions to vacate the northern areas.
person. As a result, the southern regions of Gaza are experiencing
increased overcrowding as these waves of displaced indi-
Emphasizing the humanitarian aspect of this military viduals seek refuge in the southern part of the territory. The
strategy, Lt. Colonel Conricus stated, “The important thing situation has raised concerns about the living conditions
here to focus on is that we will commence significant mili- and well-being of these vulnerable populations.
tary operations only once we see that civilians have left the
area.” Israel has demonstrated a commitment to providing To prepare for the impending operations, Israel has mobi-
ample warning to residents in Gaza, with over 25 hours lized hundreds of thousands of reserve units in the vicinity
of notice. Lt. Colonel Conricus urged Gazans to heed this of the Gaza Strip. Lt. Colonel Conricus shed light on this
warning, stating, “Now is the time for Gazans to leave. Take significant mobilization, stating that “more than 360,000
your belongings, go south. Preserve your life, and do not fall reservists” are being readied for various missions in both
into the trap that Hamas is setting up for you.” the southern and northern regions surrounding Gaza.
The Israeli military’s commitment to ensuring the safety of
The Gaza Strip, home to more than two million residents, civilians is underscored by this strategy, which aims to mini-
faces a challenging situation, particularly in the northern mize harm to non-combatants during military operations.
section, which Israel has advised to evacuate. This directive The situation continues to evolve, with the international
has resulted in a significant displacement of people, with community closely monitoring developments in the region.
