On October 1, 2025, Israel’s Defense Minister Israel Katz issued a final warning for Gaza City residents to move south, stating that those who stay may be labeled as terrorist supporters.
He announced the military’s control of the Netzarim corridor, isolating northern Gaza from the south.
Heavy Bombardment
Residents reported intense airstrikes in Gaza City. Rabah al-Halabi, 60, sheltering at Al-Shifa Hospital, said, “Bombs are everywhere. Moving south is no safer, and displacement is degrading. We await a truce or death.”
Military Checkpoints
Israel closed the last route from southern to northern Gaza, requiring those fleeing south to pass through military checkpoints. Hamas called the warning a prelude to increased violence by Israel’s forces.
Humanitarian Impact
The Red Cross paused operations in Gaza City due to escalated fighting, following a similar halt by Doctors Without Borders. Some UN and aid groups continue limited work in the area.
Trump’s Peace Proposal
Hamas is reviewing a U.S.-proposed plan, backed by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, calling for a ceasefire, hostage release within 72 hours, Hamas disarmament, and a phased Israeli withdrawal.
A Palestinian source said Hamas needs a few days to decide, seeking changes to disarmament and expulsion clauses, plus guarantees for Israel’s full exit.
Casualty Reports
Gaza’s civil defense reported 46 deaths from Israeli strikes on October 1, including 36 in Gaza City. A school shelter strike killed eight, with Israel claiming it targeted a Hamas operative while minimizing civilian harm.
Independent verification of casualties remains challenging due to media restrictions.
Hamas Divisions
A source in Doha revealed two Hamas factions: one favors accepting the ceasefire with U.S. assurances, while another rejects disarmament and expulsions, demanding clearer terms.
Trump gave Hamas days to agree, warning of consequences.
Conflict Background
The war began with Hamas’s October 7, 2023, attack, killing 1,219 people, mostly civilians, per Israeli data.
Israel’s response has killed over 66,148 Palestinians, with over half being women and children, according to Gaza’s health ministry.
Why It Matters
The evacuation order and peace talks signal a critical juncture in the nearly two-year conflict, with civilian lives and regional stability at stake.
What’s Next
Hamas’s response to the ceasefire plan, expected by October 2025, could shape the war’s trajectory, while Gaza City faces ongoing military pressure.
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