Israeli Defense Forces Block Gaza City Exit in Major Offensive Against Hamas

On October 2, 2025, the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) intensified military operations in Gaza City by blocking the main road out of the city with tanks and issuing a final evacuation order to residents. Defense Minister Israel Katz declared this the last opportunity for civilians to flee southward before a major offensive aimed at isolating Hamas fighters. The United Nations estimates that between 600,000 to 700,000 people remain in Gaza City, despite prior mass evacuations. Many residents are hesitant to leave due to fears of permanent displacement and the challenging conditions in southern Gaza. The Israeli military has stated that those who choose to stay will be considered militant supporters and face military action. This development follows a series of Israeli air and ground strikes that have caused extensive damage and civilian casualties, with Gaza’s health ministry reporting at least 77 killed in the past day. The ongoing conflict has severely impacted healthcare facilities, leading to partial shutdowns and affecting treatments for vulnerable patients.

The IDF's evacuation order directed civilians to immediately move toward the humanitarian zone in Muwasi, in southern Gaza. Col. Avichay Adraee, the IDF’s Arabic-language spokesperson, stated: "The IDF is determined to defeat Hamas and will operate in the Gaza City area with great force, just as it has throughout the Strip." He also emphasized the urgency of the evacuation: "Remaining in the area is extremely dangerous."

The evacuation order and subsequent military actions raise questions about compliance with international humanitarian law, particularly regarding the protection of civilians and the proportionality of military operations. The ongoing conflict has devastated Gaza's economy, with infrastructure damage, business closures, and high unemployment rates. The Israeli government's decision reflects its commitment to dismantling Hamas's military capabilities, while Hamas's resistance indicates its determination to maintain control over Gaza. The international community, including the United Nations and various human rights organizations, has expressed concern over the humanitarian impact of the military operations and evacuation orders.

This is the first time the IDF has ordered a citywide evacuation of Gaza’s largest urban center. Previous warnings targeted only specific buildings or immediate surroundings. The current evacuation order is part of a broader campaign to weaken Hamas’ operational capabilities in the city.

The evacuation order has led to mass displacement, with tens of thousands of residents fleeing their homes, exacerbating the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. The movement of large populations into already overcrowded and resource-scarce areas in southern Gaza raises concerns about access to basic necessities, healthcare, and shelter. The ongoing conflict and displacement have significant mental health implications for the affected populations, including trauma and stress-related disorders.

The Israeli military's recent actions in Gaza City represent a significant escalation in the ongoing conflict with Hamas. The evacuation orders and subsequent military operations have profound implications for the civilian population, raising urgent humanitarian, legal, and political questions that warrant comprehensive examination and reporting.