Israel Orders Palestinians to Leave Gaza City Amid Trump’s Peace Plan

Israel has intensified its offensive in Gaza, warning residents of Gaza City to leave or be considered militants. On Wednesday, Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz stated on X that those remaining would be treated as “terrorists and terror supporters” and face “full force.” This comes as a US-brokered peace plan, proposed by former President Donald Trump, is being studied by Hamas.

At least 16 Palestinians were reported killed across Gaza on Wednesday. Displaced families continue fleeing northern Gaza, many carrying their belongings along the coastal road near Wadi Gaza. Despite Israel’s warnings, hundreds of thousands remain in the city, unable to leave due to lack of resources or weakened health.

Recent Israeli strikes targeted shelters and civilian areas. Seven people, including paramedics, were killed when two strikes hit a school sheltering displaced residents, according to Al-Ahli Hospital. Additional fatalities were reported near a water tank and in apartment buildings in central Gaza, highlighting the high civilian toll. Israel maintains that it seeks to avoid harming civilians, blaming Hamas for embedding militants in populated areas.

Around 90 percent of Gaza’s population has been displaced during the conflict, with access to food and basic necessities becoming increasingly scarce. Since September, approximately 400,000 residents have fled Gaza City amid what Israel described as a “final assault” aimed at gaining control over the territory.

Trump’s 20-point plan, agreed upon with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, calls for Hamas to release hostages, disarm, and leave power in Gaza in exchange for Palestinian prisoner releases and the cessation of fighting. It also promises international oversight for Gaza’s reconstruction. However, the plan does not provide a pathway to Palestinian statehood.

Regional mediators, including Egypt and Qatar, have urged further negotiation on the proposal, reflecting Arab concerns over certain elements. The Palestinian Authority and several countries, including Egypt, Jordan, Turkey, Saudi Arabia, India, and the UAE, have expressed support for the peace initiative.