The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) issued an urgent warning this morning, October 4th, 2025, between 8:04 AM and 9:04 AM UTC, advising Gaza Strip residents against returning to the northern Gaza Valley, deeming it a dangerous fighting zone. Al-Rashid Street remains open for movement southward, and any attempt to return to Gaza City is described as extremely dangerous, according to a statement from Avichay Adraee. During this one-hour reporting window, the IDF also reported that its forces are still engaged in Gaza City and are actively seeking out Hamas operatives. The Air Force has deployed UAVs, helicopters, and fighter jets to the Gaza Strip to secure forces operating in the depths of the Strip and to counter threats and attack attempts against them, as stated by Itay Blumental. All IDF collection capabilities have been allocated to support ground forces in Gaza. Adraee's warning specifically stated that residents should avoid returning north or approaching IDF operational areas anywhere in the Strip, including the south. Blumental noted that since the political echelon directed the IDF to reduce fire in Gaza, there have been no unusual events or initiated attacks, implying ongoing IDF operations are defensive in nature or in response to threats. This morning's warnings follow previous IDF interventions and ongoing ceasefire efforts. Yesterday, the IDF intervened in a conflict between Hamas and the Almada clan in Khan Yunis, launching an airstrike against Hamas operatives. This intervention occurred amidst efforts to secure a ceasefire, with anti-Hamas militias expressing commitment to President Trump's proposal for ending the war in Gaza. Earlier this morning, between 3:04 AM and 4:04 AM UTC, Israeli raids targeted areas in Gaza City, despite a directive for the IDF to shift to defensive operations.
