Thousands Flee Following New Evacuation Orders in Gaza

Israel issued new evacuation orders in Khan Younis, in the southern Gaza Strip, prompting thousands of Palestinians to seek safety once again. The United Nations estimated that approximately 250,000 people would need to leave the area to comply with the new orders.

The evacuation orders were triggered by a barrage of about 20 rockets fired from Khan Younis by Palestinian militants the previous day, according to the Israeli military. Israeli forces retaliated overnight after “enabling civilians to evacuate from the area,” the military reported.

Calls for a truce have emerged from Israel’s top military leaders, who are advocating for a cease-fire in Gaza, even if it means Hamas remains in power temporarily. This stance contrasts with that of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who opposes any deal that would allow Hamas to survive the conflict.