Satellite Imagery Confirms Mass Exodus from Northern Gaza Amid Escalating Ground Offensive
Satellite Imagery Confirms Mass Exodus from Northern Gaza Amid Escalating Ground Offensive

New satellite imagery provides stark evidence of a massive and ongoing evacuation of Palestinians from northern Gaza and Gaza City. This exodus coincides with intensified Israeli bombardments and a ground invasion that commenced two days ago. Images captured between September 4 and 15 confirm a drastic reduction in tent encampments across the region, with thousands of temporary shelters in areas like Sheikh Radwan, Al-Shati Refugee Camp, and Rimal having largely vanished. Smaller camps in Al-Zaytoun and Tuffah neighborhoods also show significant emptying, indicating widespread displacement.
Despite reports of approximately 400,000 Palestinians having evacuated following Israel’s mandatory order issued last week, estimates suggest over half a million residents may still remain in northern Gaza. Many, like Mohammed Almodali from Al-Karamah, reported yesterday that they are unable to relocate due to lack of resources, fearing for their lives as Israeli tanks advance.
The Israeli military began its ground offensive in Gaza City on Tuesday, September 16, targeting what it describes as Hamas strongholds. IDF Spokesperson Effie Defrin stated during a briefing two days ago that these operations are expected to take “a few months” to complete.
The conflict continues to exact a heavy toll. The Hamas-run Gaza Health Ministry reported yesterday that over 65,000 Palestinians have been killed in the Israel-Hamas war. This follows the October 7, 2023, Hamas attack that killed over 1,200 in Israel and led to approximately 250 kidnappings. Hospitals in the Gaza Strip recorded 98 deaths, including 7 aid-seekers, in the past 24 hours due to ongoing Israeli military actions.
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