Geospatial dataset (polygon) of extensive IDF Gaza evacuation order of March 18, 2025

This is an updated version of the initial version of the extent of the extensive evacuation area around the Gaza Strip periphery delineated in the IDF order of March 18, 2025. The initial release was made rapidly, on the same day as this order, and this update presents more detail of the newly designated area and its context, and drawing on additional inputs from colleagues in Israel, Gaza, and international organisations. Following the heavy IDF attacks on Gaza ending a ceasefire in the early hours of March 18, 2025, the IDF issued an evacuation order calling on Gaza residents to flee an area of 136 km around the perimeter of the Gaza Strip. This is over twice the area of the “buffer zone” announced in late February, which it includes, adding an additional 74 km2 beyond the buffer zone’s 62 km2. The total area ordered evacuated constituted 37% of the Gaza Strip. Seen in context, it may indicate an area serving as a buffer area for the previous cease fire buffer area were that to come under long term Israeli occupation.