Residents reported that Israeli tanks made an unexpected incursion into central Khan Younis, while the military issued evacuation orders in the eastern parts of the city. Many families fled for safety, though some found themselves trapped inside their homes.
In recent days, Israel has issued multiple evacuation orders throughout Gaza, more than at any other point during the nearly 11-month conflict. This has led to criticism from Palestinians, the United Nations, and humanitarian organizations over the diminishing size of safe zones and the lack of secure areas for civilians.
The Israeli military stated that evacuations were ordered in areas where Hamas and other fighters were launching attacks, including rocket fire toward Israel. Meanwhile, Hamas and Islamic Jihad fighters claimed they were engaging in combat with Israeli forces in various parts of Gaza, using anti-tank rockets and mortars.
According to Gaza’s health ministry, the war has claimed the lives of more than 40,500 Palestinians. The densely populated enclave has been devastated, with most of its 2.3 million residents displaced multiple times and facing severe shortages of food and medical supplies.