As Israeli attacks have continued since Friday morning despite an agreed cease-fire plan, Gaza’s civil defense organization has warned residents of the besieged area not to return to the occupied territory until Israel formally announces the withdrawal of its troops.
“Residents of the Gaza Strip, and in particular of Gaza City, we urge you not to approach or return to the areas where the occupation forces were present, especially the border areas of Gaza City, until an official announcement regarding the withdrawal of the Israeli occupation forces is made and confirmed by the relevant authorities,” the Civil Defense said.
Context: The Israeli government approved the first phase of a US-brokered ceasefire agreement overnight. Two Israeli officials, speaking on condition of anonymity, said this meant a ceasefire had come into effect. However, it is unclear whether Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has ordered the military to cease fighting.
In any case, heavy airstrikes took place in the center of Khan Yunis in southern Gaza on Friday morning, with artillery fire and drones flying over the city.
CNN has reached out to the IDF for comment.
