Tens of thousands of Palestinians fled eastern parts of Gaza City on Sunday after Israel warned of a major military operation that would target crowded neighbourhoods and destroy terrorist organisation capabilities.
Social media messages from the Israel Defense Forces warned of escalating violence, directing residents to evacuate southwards. Witnesses described chaotic scenes as families packed belongings onto donkey carts, bicycles, and cars.
The warnings came days after renewed Israeli airstrikes and shelling in Gaza, which have killed hundreds, including at least 23 Palestinians on Sunday by Israeli strikes. The civil defence agency reported two children among the victims.
Israel’s military is fighting to dismantle Hamas military capabilities, while a ceasefire collapsed in March following a fragile peace deal. The 20-month war in Gaza was triggered by a Hamas attack in October 2023.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said his country’s “victory” over Iran had created opportunities for freeing hostages held in Gaza. The main group representing hostages’ families welcomed the prime minister’s announcement.
However, concerns are rising over food distribution in Gaza, with hundreds of Palestinians killed as they gathered at aid convoy sites and hospitals. Indirect negotiations between Israel and Hamas continue, but a breakthrough seems unlikely without direct pressure from key figures such as Netanyahu or US President Donald Trump.
Source: https://www.theguardian.com/world/2025/jun/29/tens-of-thousands-flee-gaza-city-after-israel-warns-of-major-offensive