The Israel Defense Forces on Tuesday ordered a widespread evacuation of Gaza City, telling civilians they must leave the area ahead of a major offensive aimed at removing Hamas fighters in the capital of the Gaza Strip.

In the past, warnings for the civilian population have been aimed at specific buildings or neighborhoods targeted by the IDF.

“For your safety, move immediately towards Al-Mawasi via Al-Rashid Street. Staying in the city is extremely dangerous,” Col. Avichay Adraee, the IDF’s Arabic language spokesman, posted Tuesday on X. “The [IDF] will act with great force in the area.”

Civilians were ordered to immediately evacuate toward the coastal community of Al-Mawasi, which has been designated as a humanitarian area.

“The [IDF] is determined to eliminate Hamas and will operate in the Gaza Strip with great force, as it has operated in various parts of the Strip,” Col. Adraee posted on X.

The IDF asked Palestinian civilians to report any barriers set up by Hamas or attempts to keep them inside Gaza City.

• Mike Glenn can be reached at mglenn@washingtontimes.com.