Israel Expands Evacuation Route as Gaza City Assault Intensifies

Israel’s military has opened an additional route for 48 hours, urging Palestinians to leave Gaza City as it ramps up efforts to confront Hamas fighters. Despite the push, hundreds of thousands remain in the city, citing fears of displacement, unsafe routes, and worsening humanitarian conditions in the south.

Local health officials reported at least 63 Palestinians killed in strikes and gunfire on Wednesday, bringing the death toll past 65,000 since the war began in October 2023. Among the dead was journalist Mohammad Alaa Al-Sawalhi, killed while evacuating. Five others were killed near Rafah when Israeli troops fired at what they described as an “immediate threat.”

The offensive comes as Israel advances tanks into Gaza’s central and western areas. Officials say capturing the city could take months, with around 100,000 civilians expected to remain. A ceasefire appears unlikely after Israel struck Hamas political leaders in Doha, straining relations with mediator Qatar.

Meanwhile, Gaza’s Health Ministry accused Israel of targeting Rantissi children’s hospital with drone grenades, though no casualties were reported. Families evacuated children suffering from cancer and kidney failure. Israel has not commented.

Leaflets dropped by Israel directed civilians to use Salahudin Road until Friday noon, but many continue fleeing in dangerous conditions, on foot or by cart. Aid groups warn displacement risks worsening overcrowding and hunger in southern Gaza, already declared a “humanitarian zone” but repeatedly hit by airstrikes.

The United Nations and aid organizations condemned Israel’s offensive and mass displacement plans. A U.N. Commission of Inquiry this week accused Israel of committing genocide, a charge Israel rejected as “fake.”

Residents like Ahmed, a Gaza teacher, refuse to leave: “Even if we want to leave, will we ever return? That’s why I prefer to die here, in my neighborhood.”