GAZA CITY – In a significant escalation, Israel has ordered evacuations in northern Gaza as U.S. President Donald Trump urges for a ceasefire.
Immediate Impact
As military operations intensify, residents in Gaza City and Jabalia have been directed to move south towards al-Mawasi. The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) announced this move amid plans for increased military action against Hamas.
President Trump reiterated his calls on Truth Social, urging for a ceasefire and the return of hostages, while highlighting ongoing negotiations between Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Hamas.
Key Details Emerge
Over the past 24 hours, at least 86 Palestinians have been killed, according to the Hamas-run health ministry. Among the casualties were three children in a strike on al-Mawasi, previously deemed a “safe zone.”
86 people were killed in Israeli attacks within 24 hours before midday on Sunday.
Medics reported increased bombardments early Sunday, resulting in the destruction of several homes. A tragic incident in al-Mawasi claimed the lives of five members of the Maarouf family, including three children.
“They bombed us while we were sleeping,” said Iman Abu Maarouf, the mother of the deceased children. Her husband, Zeyad, added that they had relocated to the “safe zone” a month prior.
By the Numbers
- 23 fatalities on Sunday alone, reported by Gaza’s civil defense agency.
- 5 people killed in an airstrike on a tent housing displaced individuals in al-Mawasi.
Expert Analysis
The IDF stated that their operations aim to “eliminate terrorists and terrorist infrastructure” in north Gaza. However, the humanitarian impact of these actions has raised concerns among international observers.
Juliette Touma, communications director for the UN agency for Palestinian refugees, criticized the aid distribution mechanism, calling it “a killing field.”
Background Context
This escalation follows a failed two-month ceasefire, which collapsed in March when Israel resumed strikes on Gaza, seeking to pressure Hamas to release hostages. A total blockade on humanitarian aid was imposed, partially eased after 11 weeks due to international pressure.
The Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF), established in response to aid misappropriation accusations against Hamas, has faced criticism for its handling of aid distribution.
Regional Implications
Efforts to broker a new ceasefire continue, with Qatari mediators expressing hope for U.S. intervention. Netanyahu emphasized that “victory” over Iran opens opportunities for hostage rescue and broader regional cooperation.
Trump remains optimistic about a ceasefire, suggesting an agreement could be reached within a week.
What Comes Next
As mediators intensify efforts, the situation remains fluid. The international community watches closely, hopeful for a peaceful resolution and the safe return of hostages.
This ongoing conflict highlights the delicate balance between military objectives and humanitarian concerns, with future developments likely to shape the region’s geopolitical landscape.
