Israel Prepares for Major Offensive in Gaza City Amid Evacuation Plans

Israel's military has urged medical and international organizations to prepare for an evacuation of Gaza City's one million residents ahead of a significant military offensive. Amid escalating tensions and heavy bombardments in the area, the Hamas-run health ministry has condemned these plans, asserting they threaten the fragile health infrastructure in Gaza.

Israel's military has announced preparations for a potential evacuation of Gaza City's population, which has sparked condemnation from health officials and international aid organizations. As one of the most densely populated urban territories, Gaza City faces the prospect of a full-scale offensive as Israeli forces conduct heavy bombardments in the region.

The Israeli government has instructed medical personnel and international relief groups to be ready for the evacuation of up to one million residents, with hopes to provide care for those who remain in the city. However, these warnings have been met with firm rejection from Gaza's Hamas-run health ministry, which stated that any moves to evacuate would worsen the already precarious healthcare system, thereby endangering the lives of residents and patients.

The military's call for preparations was accompanied by assurances that hospitals in southern Gaza would be bolstered to accommodate the influx of the sick and wounded. Amidst ongoing air strikes reported by journalists on the ground, the humanitarian crisis has deepened, with the UN indicating that only 18 out of 36 hospitals in Gaza remain partially functional.

Protests erupted in Gaza City as angry residents demanded an end to the conflict, rejecting plans for evacuation. Encouraged by the escalating violence, people voiced their desire to remain in their homes rather than risk further displacement. Families of Israeli hostages, meanwhile, urged their government to accept a ceasefire proposal that could lead to the release of their loved ones held by Hamas.

Mediators including Qatar and Egypt are involved in attempts to negotiate peace, proposing a 60-day truce and partial release of hostages. However, Israeli officials are hesitant, insisting on a comprehensive agreement that involves the release of all hostages. UN Secretary-General António Guterres has emphasized the urgent need for an immediate ceasefire to avert catastrophic consequences from the impending offensive.

The escalation follows the deadly Hamas-led attack on Israel in October, which prompted a fierce Israeli military response. The health ministry in Gaza reports staggering casualty figures, underscoring the dire implications of ongoing operations. As the situation becomes more complex, international calls for peace and humanitarian support mount amidst the growing humanitarian crisis.