Hamas had negotiated with Israel for an end to the 17-year siege strangling Gaza, an increase in food entering Gaza, & release of Palestinian political prisoners. The Israeli army advised Netanyahu respond to these demands with an all-out attack on the Gaza. Al-Aqsa Flood was an attempt to preempt this attack.

Through embassy evacuations, academic fellowships, and WHO medical corridors, Palestinians are leaving Gaza in small but steady numbers. Israeli officials call it "voluntary migration," but the Gazans forced to leave know it's part of Israel's plan.