Israel's Gaza Ultimatum Tactics: Leave or Face Bombing

Palestinian armed activists in the Gaza Strip report receiving chilling phone calls from Israeli intelligence agents in recent months. The agents allegedly issue an ultimatum: "Leave the street and be eliminated alone, or you and your family will be bombed together." According to a report in "Asharq Al-Awsat," activists who complied by leaving buildings or going to rooftops were then targeted and killed by small missiles fired from drones. A prominent recent incident occurred last Wednesday at a center for the homeless in Khan Younis. Activist Mohammed al-Biyuk reportedly received such a call, was given the ultimatum, and subsequently went to his rooftop, where he was killed by a small missile. While some family members declined to comment, another relative confirmed the details, stating that one of al-Biyuk's aunts was severely injured while trying to prevent him from leaving.

Sources on the ground confirmed to the newspaper that approximately five similar, credible incidents have been documented in recent months. One source described the tactic as psychological warfare, noting that the targeted killings were carried out using suicide drones and small missiles to minimize collateral damage. This source also indicated that while junior operatives receive these "offers," the elimination of senior figures may involve greater environmental damage. Palestinian sources emphasized that despite this method, "these actions do not indicate Israeli mercy, as many attacks still harm civilians."

However, Palestinian and Arab intelligence circles believe these operations are a result of international and American pressure. "Haaretz" reported in early September that the US and Israel reached understandings whereby the US would intervene less if Israel acted surgically against Hamas operatives using drones and precision munitions, while reducing civilian casualties.