Israeli Military Plans Displacement of One Million in Gaza

Palestinians in Gaza are facing increasing fear and uncertainty following an announcement from the Israeli military regarding plans to forcibly displace up to one million people from Gaza City. This declaration, made on October 8, 2023, comes just days after Israel indicated it would launch a major offensive aimed at gaining control of the territory’s largest urban centre. As the situation escalates, humanitarian concerns are heightening among international observers.

The Israeli Coordination of Government Activities in the Palestinian Territories issued a statement indicating that preparations are underway to move civilians from combat zones to the southern Gaza Strip, emphasizing the need for their safety. The announcement mentioned that the provision of tents and shelter equipment for Gaza residents would resume, with supplies being transferred through the Kerem Shalom crossing, facilitated by the United Nations and other international relief organizations.

Tragically, the ongoing military actions have resulted in significant casualties. Gaza’s health officials reported that at least 40 people were killed in recent strikes, including a baby who died in a tent and individuals seeking humanitarian aid. The situation has led to profound psychological and physical exhaustion among the population, many of whom have already faced multiple displacements.

Elderly Gaza City resident Akram Shlabia, aged 85, expressed the despair felt by many, stating, “We are already destroyed and exhausted, physically and psychologically, from repeated displacement, from the lack of food and water.” Shlabia added that the prospect of moving southward is daunting, as it leads into “nothingness,” without any assurance of safety or basic necessities.

The humanitarian crisis deepens as reports reveal that many families are beginning to move south in anticipation of the potential evacuation. Mazen Hasaneh, 40, who has endured six displacements during the conflict, highlighted the difficulties of securing basic items and the exploitative tactics of drivers who may raise prices due to the desperation of families seeking transport.

Some residents, like Asma Al-Barawi, a mother of seven, are resolute in their decision to stay. “I didn’t leave the first time, and I won’t leave this time,” she stated, recounting the profound losses she has suffered due to the conflict, including the deaths of family members and the destruction of her home.

The Israeli military’s actions have intensified in recent days, with heavy explosions reported from areas east of Gaza, particularly around the Sabra neighbourhood. On October 7, recordings surfaced of an Israeli general stating that “50 Palestinians must die” for every Israeli casualty, a chilling remark that has drawn considerable condemnation.

As the situation unfolds, the humanitarian impact is stark. According to Gaza’s health ministry, malnutrition-related deaths have risen significantly, with a reported 251 deaths attributed to the ongoing blockade that restricts essential aid.

In parallel, the U.S. State Department announced it would cease issuing visas for children from Gaza needing medical care, following pressure from far-right influencer Laura Loomer. This decision has further raised alarms regarding the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, as families are left without crucial medical assistance.

Israeli Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu has indicated that military operations will not only target Gaza City but will also expand to include central refugee camps and other densely populated areas. This strategy raises additional concerns about the humanitarian implications for civilians already enduring immense hardship.

As the conflict continues to escalate, the situation in Gaza remains precarious, with many residents fearing the consequences of the Israeli military’s plans for displacement and the broader humanitarian crisis that is unfolding.