The call to evacuate came ahead of an anticipated ground invasion of the Gaza Strip amid the ongoing war with Hamas.
The commander had taken part in firing rocket barrages into Israel during Operation Guardian of the Walls and Operation Breaking Dawn.
Security Cabinet convenes; Israel is ready for “all possibilities” moving forward with Operation Shield and Arrow
Iran is watching Israel's moves closely, as the Palestinian Islamic Jihad is widely seen as a proxy of Iran.
The "Gust of Wind" program has been activated, enabling residents of communities near the Gaza Strip to stay in guest houses across the country during escalations.