Israel Says 150,000 Have Left Gaza City So Far

Defense officials estimated on September 10 that roughly 150,000 residents had evacuated Gaza City since the Israel Defense Forces issued a citywide order to move ahead of a renewed offensive. The figure marked a rapid increase from earlier counts and followed repeated calls for civilians to relocate away from areas of intensified combat. Authorities said the aim is to reduce harm to noncombatants while isolating embedded Hamas battalions and infrastructure.

Israel has argued that Hamas uses civilian neighborhoods for command nodes, weapons storage, and rocket fire, complicating efforts to minimize casualties and protect humanitarian corridors. Officials said leaflets, broadcasts, and designated evacuation routes were part of the effort to separate civilians from fighting, while acknowledging the hardship imposed by displacement. Aid groups urged safe passage, clear information, and reliable access for relief supplies.

The wider war, many months since October 7, continued to shift as operations expanded and control lines moved. Military planners said progress would be measured by degrading the enemy’s capabilities and constricting its movement, not by timelines alone. Even as pressure mounted on Hamas units in dense urban terrain, the humanitarian imperative remained central to how Israel sought to structure the campaign.

(TOI/VFI News)

“Lord, have mercy on the innocent. Bring swift protection to families fleeing danger, healing to the wounded, and safe passage for aid to reach those in need. Grant wisdom to decision-makers and soldiers alike, that every action would minimize harm and open a path toward lasting peace for Israelis and Palestinians.”