Katz warns Gazans that IDF will expand operations, tells them to demand Hamas’s removal to stop war

Emanuel (Mannie) Fabian is The Times of Israel's military correspondent

Defense Minister Israel Katz warns Palestinians in Gaza that the military will soon operate in additional areas of the Strip, telling them to learn from civilians in Beit Lahiya who have been protesting against Hamas.

“Gaza residents, the IDF will soon operate with intensity in additional areas in Gaza and you will be required to evacuate for your protection from the combat zones,” he says in a video statement.

“The plans are ready and approved. Hamas is risking your life and will make you lose your homes and more and more land that will be added to the Israeli defense array,” Katz says, referring to an expanding buffer zone along the Gaza border.

“Learn from the residents of Beit Lahiiya, as they did, you should also demand the removal of Hamas from Gaza and the immediate release of all Israeli hostages. This is the only way to stop the war,” he adds.

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