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Sunday 22/02/2026

Israel Orders Evacuations in Gaza Amid Intensified Military Offensive

Families evacuating northern Gaza amidst military tensions
James OkoroJames Okoro

In This Article

HIGHLIGHTS

  • Israel has ordered evacuations in northern Gaza, warning of an intensified military offensive against Hamas.
  • At least 86 Palestinians were killed in recent Israeli attacks, with civilian casualties including children.
  • US President Donald Trump is advocating for a ceasefire and the release of hostages held by Hamas.
  • Ceasefire negotiations are ongoing, with Egypt, the US, and Qatar mediating between Israel and Hamas.
  • Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu claims a recent "victory" over Iran opens opportunities for resolving the Gaza conflict.

Israel has issued evacuation orders for Palestinians in northern Gaza as it prepares to escalate military operations against Hamas. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have warned residents in Gaza City and Jabalia to move south to the coastal area of al-Mawasi, citing plans to "intensify and expand westward" their military actions. This move comes as US President Donald Trump pushes for a ceasefire and the release of hostages held by Hamas.

Rising Civilian Casualties

The humanitarian toll continues to rise, with at least 86 Palestinians killed in the latest Israeli strikes, according to Gaza's Hamas-run health ministry. Among the victims were three children, killed in a strike on what was designated as a "safe zone" in al-Mawasi. The Maarouf family, who had relocated to the area following Israeli directives, suffered devastating losses, with five members, including three children, killed in an airstrike. "They bombed us while we were sleeping," said Iman Abu Maarouf, the children's mother. The IDF stated that it adheres to international law and takes precautions to minimize civilian harm.

Ceasefire Negotiations and International Mediation

Efforts to broker a ceasefire are underway, with Egypt, the US, and Qatar actively mediating between Israel and Hamas. Talks have been complicated by differing demands, with Hamas seeking a full Israeli withdrawal and Israel insisting on Hamas's disarmament and exile. Meanwhile, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has highlighted a recent "victory" over Iran as a potential catalyst for resolving the Gaza conflict and freeing hostages.

Political Maneuvering and International Pressure

President Trump has reiterated his call for a ceasefire, emphasizing the need to "make the deal in Gaza" and secure the release of hostages. Netanyahu, who has been accused by Hamas of stalling negotiations, is expected to visit Washington for further talks. The international community remains hopeful that diplomatic pressure can lead to a resolution, with Qatari mediators expressing optimism about a potential deal.

WHAT THIS MIGHT MEAN

The situation in Gaza remains volatile as Israel's military offensive intensifies, raising concerns about further civilian casualties. The success of ceasefire negotiations hinges on the willingness of both Israel and Hamas to compromise on key issues, such as hostages and military presence. International mediators, particularly from the US and Qatar, play a crucial role in facilitating dialogue and applying pressure for a peaceful resolution. If a ceasefire is achieved, it could pave the way for broader discussions on long-term peace and stability in the region. However, the ongoing conflict with Iran and internal political dynamics in Israel and the US may complicate these efforts.