The IDF is finishing the takeover of the Netzarim Corridor, Defense Minister Israel Katz said on Wednesday.
The minister noted that the takeover divides Gaza into northern and southern halves.
"This will tighten the encirclement around Gaza City, and anyone leaving it southward will have to pass through the IDF’s inspection checkpoints," he added. "This is the last chance for Gaza residents who are interested in moving southward and leaving Hamas terrorists isolated in Gaza City in the face of IDF activity that continues at full strength.
"Those who remain in Gaza [City] will be terrorists and terror supporters."
IDF, Hamas statements on Netzarim Corridor operations
The military later announced that troops positioned at the corridor have operated to disrupt the capabilities of the Hamas terrorist organization.
The terrorist organization issued a response to Katz on Telegram, saying that his words "represent a blatant manifestation of arrogance and disregard for the international community and the principles of international and humanitarian law."
The terror organization also accused the defense minister of "ethnic cleansing" and "forced displacement."