IDF calls on civilians to evacuate Aljalaa in northern Khan Yunis

The directive follows rocket fire and terrorist activities that were carried out from that area, the IDF added, noting that the military was readying to operate in the area in response.  

 IDF graphic showing area designated for temporary civilian evacuation and adjusted humanitarian zone in Gaza. Published August 11, 2024. (photo credit: IDF SPOKESPERSON'S UNIT)
IDF graphic showing area designated for temporary civilian evacuation and adjusted humanitarian zone in Gaza. Published August 11, 2024.
(photo credit: IDF SPOKESPERSON'S UNIT)

The IDF sent out leaflets calling on the civilians in the Aljalaa area in northern Khan Yunis to evacuate, the military said on Sunday. 

The directive follows rocket fire and terrorist activities that were carried out from that area, the IDF added, noting that the military was readying to operate in the area in response.  

As such, the IDF stated civilians should evacuate to the adjusted humanitarian area

 IDF operating in Gaza on August 8, 2024 (credit: IDF SPOKESMAN’S UNIT)
IDF operating in Gaza on August 8, 2024 (credit: IDF SPOKESMAN’S UNIT)

The IDF's Arabic spokesperson Avichay Adraee shared the message on X, formerly Twitter, adding "Against the backdrop of the exploitation of the humanitarian zone for terrorist acts and the continuous firing of rockets towards the State of Israel from Block 36, remaining in this block has become dangerous, and therefore that block will no longer be considered part of the humanitarian zone as of now.

"We inform all residents and displaced persons who are still in the Jalaa neighborhood that the IDF will act forcefully against the terrorist organizations there."

Third Khan Yunis invasion

The instructions were issued via SMS messages, phone calls, and Arabic media broadcasts, among other things.

This comes amid the IDF's third invasion of Khan Yunis. Last week, IDF spokesperson in Arabic, Avichai Adraee, called on residents of the area to evacuate certain Khan Yunis localities, such as the town of Khuza’a, the suburbs of al-Qarara and Bani Suheila, and the Abasan neighborhoods. 

Yonah Jeremy Bob contributed to this report.