War in Gaza
IDF Coordinates Evacuation Ahead of Gaza Encirclement
Military liaison officers warn hospitals and aid groups to prepare for transfer of patients and supplies southward as fighting nears Gaza City.
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) is preparing for the next stage of fighting in Gaza, likely the encirclement of Gaza City and the southward evacuation of civilians. In recent days, officers from the Coordination and Liaison Administration to Gaza (COGAT) have held initial warning talks with medical officials and international organizations operating in the northern Strip.
During the discussions, the officials were told to prepare for the transfer of patients and medical equipment from western Gaza City to the south, where hospitals are being reinforced to handle a surge in admissions. The IDF is also facilitating the delivery of medical supplies in coordination with aid organizations.
An officer on the ground stated: “We are preparing for the possibility of entering Gaza City, there will be a full evacuation from Gaza to the south. This requires you to draft a plan for transferring medical equipment north-to-south, so you can provide care for all patients in the south. We will secure a place for you, whether in a field hospital or another facility.”
The IDF emphasized that this is a humanitarian measure designed to protect civilians while ensuring continuity of medical treatment. Talks with international actors are ongoing and expected to expand as the encirclement and evacuation phase approaches.