The head of the UN Agency for Palestinian Refugees (UNRWA), Thomas White, has condemned the recent Israeli evacuation order for central Gaza, impacting over 150,000 people, many of whom are already displaced. White emphasized the humanitarian crisis, stating, “People in Gaza are people. They are not pieces on a checkerboard,” expressing concern over the Israeli Army’s directives amid ongoing airstrikes.
Israeli’s Evacuation Order
Israeli authorities issued evacuation orders for the middle area of Gaza, directing residents to move to Deir al Balah as part of an expansion of military operations in central Gaza. A CNN analysis revealed that Israel has struck at least three locations in Gaza where civilians were ordered to evacuate since the conflict began in October.
2023 Israel Hamas War
For those unfamiliar with the background of the 2023 Israel-Hamas War, it originated on October 7, 2023, with coordinated armed incursions by paramilitary wings of Hamas, PFLP, and DFLP into the Gaza envelope of Israeli territory. The attacks included a rocket barrage, breaching the Gaza-Israel barrier, and resulted in numerous casualties and hostages.
In response to the Hamas attack, Israel initiated a large-scale military operation, including airstrikes and a ground invasion of Gaza. The conflict has led to widespread destruction and a severe humanitarian crisis, with over 20,000 Palestinians, including thousands of children and women, reported dead as of December 22, 2023.
Accusations of war crimes have been directed at both Israel and Hamas, with Israel facing criticism for bombing locations it instructed Palestinians to evacuate. The blockade imposed by Israel has exacerbated the humanitarian situation, causing shortages of water, electricity, food, and medical supplies.
Global Protests
Global protests calling for a ceasefire have emerged throughout the war. The United States, aligning with Israel, has rejected multiple UN Security Council resolutions for a humanitarian ceasefire, emphasizing what it believes to be in Hamas’ best interest. Despite a seven-day truce leading to a hostage exchange, the war persists, with ongoing U.S. military and diplomatic support, drawing condemnation from various human rights groups.
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