Israel gives six hours to 1.1 million in North Gaza to vacate; UN fears for calamitous situation

Israel has given six hours to people living in Gaza Strip to evacuate on specified routes as condition expected to worsen over the weekend. Israel’s military has asked over 1.1 million people living in northern Gaza to evacuate their homes as the war between Israel and Hamas has entered its seventh day since the October 7 terror attacks that killed 1,300 people.

"Residents of Gaza, move south for your personal safety and your families. Distance yourself from the Hamas terrorists who use you as human shield. IDF will continue to operate significantly in Gaza City in the coming days, and wishes to avoid harming civilians," the Israeli Defence Force said.

Thousands of people fled towards south as panic gripped the enclave, according to UN’s Humanitarian Office. Palestine Health Minister has confirmed at least 1,900 people have been killed in Gaza till Friday.

There are reports indicating missiles from Israel side has hit two trucks and a car at three different points on the Salah al-Din and al-Rashid streets. The vehicles had families who were on their way to the southern Gaza Strip, following the Israeli military order. According to reports at least 70 people were killed along the way when Israeli airstrikes hit some of the vehicles fleeing south.

United Nations has strongly criticised the mass evacuation order fearing it would be calamitous. UN has urged Israel to reverse its order stating time given was too less for people to leave given that Gaza is also facing fuel shortage. "The UN considers it impossible for such a movement to take place without devastating humanitarian consequences," it said in a statement.

Israel has already imposed a "complete" siege on Gaza, cutting off water, fuel and electricity supplies. The sole power plant there has shut down after running out of fuel. Israel has warned that it won't allow humanitarian aid enter into Gaza until Hamas releases the hostages.