Be Prepared

Israel Warns of Escalation

“Third stage” of operation starting soon.

Israel delivered phone messages and dropped thousands of pamphlets over Gaza today warning residents to prepare for a more extensive ground operation. The leaflets urge residents to stay away from Hamas-friendly locations and assure them that Israel is targeting only Hamas, not civilians. One phone message said the “third stage” of the operation would start soon. The pamphlet drop comes as Israeli troops are advancing toward Gaza City, though they have yet to enter the most densely populated areas. Also today, Israel attacked dozens of Hamas targets, including rocket-launching sites and weapons stores, and United Nations relief operations resumed following a one day suspension prompted by fear for the safety of drivers. Mahmoud Abbas, president of the Palestinian Authority and leader of Hamas rival Fatah, is currently in Cairo taking part in cease-fire talks. He called on all sides to accept the proposal “without delay.”