Israeli forces have moved closer to completing the encirclement of Gaza City, with the Defence Minister announcing that residents have been urged to leave through designated checkpoints. The development marks a significant escalation in the ongoing conflict, as the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) intensify operations aimed at dismantling Hamas’ military capabilities.

Defence Minister’s Warning to Civilians

The Defence Minister stated that civilians remaining in Gaza City face a final opportunity to evacuate southward. According to his remarks, those who fail to comply with evacuation orders risk being identified as hostile elements. The warning underscores the gravity of the situation for residents caught in the midst of military operations and highlights Israel’s strategy of separating civilians from combatants during its campaign.

IDF Secures Netzarim Corridor

A key development in the military advance has been the seizure of the Netzarim Corridor by Israeli forces. This strategic strip effectively bisects Gaza, allowing tighter control over movement between the northern and southern parts of the territory. By holding this corridor, the IDF has strengthened its operational position and limited Hamas’ ability to maneuver or resupply within Gaza City and beyond.

Continued Campaign Against Hamas

The military operations remain focused on disarming Hamas and dismantling its infrastructure within Gaza. Israeli officials have emphasized that their objective is not only territorial control but also neutralizing armed groups they consider responsible for attacks against Israel. The encirclement of Gaza City is seen as a critical step toward achieving these goals, though it has also intensified humanitarian concerns for civilians still inside urban areas under siege conditions.

Ceasefire Proposal Accepted by Israel

Amid escalating ground operations, Israel has accepted a ceasefire proposal put forward by the United States. The plan includes provisions for an exchange of hostages held by Hamas for Palestinian prisoners in Israeli custody, as well as a phased withdrawal of Israeli forces from certain areas. While details of implementation remain complex, acceptance of this proposal signals an opening for potential de-escalation even as fighting continues on the ground.

Humanitarian Impact and Evacuation Challenges

Calls for civilians to move southward highlight ongoing humanitarian challenges within Gaza. With checkpoints established by Israeli forces, residents face difficult choices about whether and how to evacuate under conditions of uncertainty and danger. Aid organizations have repeatedly warned about shortages of essential supplies such as food, water, and medical care, raising concerns about how prolonged fighting may affect civilian populations trapped in conflict zones.

The near-complete encirclement of Gaza City reflects both military determination and mounting humanitarian risks. While Israel’s acceptance of a US-backed ceasefire proposal offers some hope for relief through negotiated exchanges and withdrawals, conditions on the ground remain tense and precarious for civilians caught between advancing troops and militant strongholds. The coming days will likely determine whether military escalation gives way to diplomatic compromise or if hostilities continue unabated across Gaza’s most densely populated areas.