The Israeli military (IDF) has dropped Arabic-language leaflets over Gaza City calling on civilians to evacuate “immediately,” describing the area as a dangerous combat zone. The message stated: “If you are not a member of Hamas’s military wing, the IDF is making efforts to avoid harming you and allows you to evacuate immediately with your family from Gaza City, which has become a dangerous combat zone.” Similar evacuation orders have been issued repeatedly this month as Israel expands its ground push into the city. Reports and video from recent days show fresh leaflet drops and warnings to move south, including instructions to use the Salah al-Din road corridor.
urging evacuation south to al-Mawasi, on September 9, 2025.
Omar Al-Qattaa/AFP/Getty Images
Reports of public executions by Hamas
Overnight, videos circulated on social media, shared by outlets in Israel and regional channels, appearing to show Hamas gunmen publicly executing Palestinians accused of collaborating with Israel in central Gaza City, amid cheering crowds. Numbers vary across reports; at least two were killed, with several outlets reporting three. Independent verification remains limited given access and communications constraints.
Situation on the ground
Israeli strikes and ground operations in and around Gaza City have intensified in recent days. Health officials reported dozens of deaths over the weekend, while aid groups warn of renewed displacement from the city’s western and central districts. Reuters and AP reporting describe continued bombardment, a deepening ground incursion and large-scale civilian flight, though many residents remain.
Diplomatic backdrop: State recognitions and UN focus
The military escalation coincides with a sharp diplomatic shift: on 21 September, the UK, Canada and Australia formally recognised a Palestinian state, moves that drew criticism from Israel and a mixed response internationally. In New York this week, France and Saudi Arabia are gathering leaders to rally support for a two-state framework, as pressure grows to halt the fighting and unlock a political track.
These developments come as Israel presses its urban assault and international actors recalibrate their positions, adding new urgency to calls for civilian protection and a path back to negotiations.
CNN sourced reporting