Politis

Gaza Strip: Israel Issues Evacuation Order for the First Time Since Ceasefire

Published January 20, 2026, 16:23
Gaza Strip: Israel Issues Evacuation Order for the First Time Since Ceasefire

Israeli forces have issued an evacuation order to dozens of Palestinian families in the southern Gaza Strip, marking the first such move since the October ceasefire. The order affects residents of Bani Suhayla, east of Khan Younis, and was delivered via leaflets warning of IDF control over the area. This is the first time Israel has taken this action since the ceasefire, having previously used leaflets before raids or bombings during the two-year war. The situation is deteriorating as the ceasefire remains stalled, with mutual accusations between Israel and Hamas of violations. The population of Gaza, exceeding 2 million, has been confined to approximately one-third of the territory, living in makeshift shelters and damaged buildings. Hamas reports that the Israeli military has expanded its control area in eastern Khan Younis five times since the ceasefire, displacing at least 9,000 people. Residents of the area report that the 'yellow line' demarcating the limits of Israeli withdrawal is gradually expanding, encroaching on more Palestinian land. This creates uncertainty and insecurity for residents, who are forced to relocate repeatedly. The evacuation order affects at least 70 families living in tents and partially destroyed homes in the area. Concurrently, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz is reportedly reaching his limits due to threats from US President Donald Trump to impose tariffs on Germany. Scholz is said to be concerned that Trump will use US aid to Ukraine as leverage in other disputes, such as the one over Greenland. Germany is also being called upon by the US to participate in a 'Peace Council' for Gaza, an invitation that is under consideration.