IDF Spokesperson in Arabic Avichay Adraee on Monday morning issued an unusually large-scale evacuation notice, calling on all residents of Rafah and nearby towns in southern Gaza to immediately leave their homes and move to the humanitarian area in Al-Mawasi. The notice stated that “the IDF is resuming intense combat to eliminate terrorist capabilities in these areas. For your safety, you must immediately move to Al-Mawasi.” This is the most extensive evacuation notice published by the IDF since the resumption of fighting in the Gaza Strip. The move follows the decision of Israel’s security cabinet on Motzei Shabbos to increase military pressure on Hamas amid hostage deal negotiations.  During the meeting, Strategic Affairs Minister Ron Dermer said that Israel’s military pressure is effective, stating that “Hamas is starting to blink.” Ynet quoted a senior Israeli official who said: “Negotiations are ongoing. Even without delegations, there is continuous communication with mediators and the Americans. Military pressure and the logistical blockade are clearly having an impact on negotiations, leading to the exchange of proposals. We submitted a counteroffer and are now waiting for Hamas’ response.” (YWN Israel Desk – Jerusalem)