Mass Displacement of Palestinians in Gaza: A Human Rights Watch Report Raises Alarms Over Possible War Crimes
A new report by Human Rights Watch (HRW) has raised serious concerns about the treatment of Palestinian civilians in Gaza amidst ongoing Israeli military actions, calling mass displacements a war crime. The report, titled "Desperate, Hungry, and Besieged: Forced Displacement of Palestinians in Gaza by Israel," outlines the harrowing experiences of individuals like Omar, a father who lost four family members, including his six-year-old son, when he was caught in the crossfire without prior evacuation orders.
The HRW report presents evidence that more than 90% of Gaza's population, approximately 1.9 million people, have been displaced as a result of Israeli military operations, raising the question of whether there are any plausible military justifications for such extensive evacuations, as stated by the United Nations.
Since October 8, 2023, following Hamas's attack on Israel, the Israeli military has issued at least 184 evacuation orders, many of which were unclear and arrived late, causing confusion among the general population. The first broad evacuation order, significant for its impact, was issued hours after early morning bombings, and HRW verified that it was not disseminated until 7:15 AM, despite the existing chaos.
Testimonies collected reveal the considerable struggles civilians faced as they attempted to find safety. Residents often had no access to reliable communication, and many were cut off from power and internet connections due to the bombardments and blackouts, making it challenging to understand or act upon the Israeli evacuation plans. One resident in Jabalia recounted an experience of being bombarded just hours after the distribution of evacuation leaflets to the air, leaving many feeling lost and hopeless.
The hyperbolic and inconsistent nature of these orders has exacerbated fears and anxiety among the population rather than providing solace. HRW reports that the evacuation protocols underestimated the necessity for reliable communication methods and access to technology, as many Gazans experienced major disruptions in services due to infrastructure damage and deliberate actions by Israeli authorities.
In addition, the maps used by the Israeli Army were riddled with inaccuracies and contradictions, with some civilians inadequately informed about which areas were safe and which were not. Errors in the evacuation communication led to an environment of chaos, as seen in Khan Yunis, where tens of thousands faced confusion due to faulty directions.
Statements made by senior Israeli officials further the allegations of potential ethnic cleansing—an accusation hard to overlook when considering the scale and violence of the displacements. Francesca Albanese, UN Special Rapporteur on human rights in Palestine, has described the situation in Gaza as ethnically cleansing through genocidal means, echoing the HRW's concerns.
Moreover, with the destruction of vast areas of Gaza, HRW emphasizes the urgent need for the acknowledgment of displaced Palestinians' rights to return, a right enshrined in international law and UN Resolution 194. The demands for justice are not merely historical claims but a crucial part of recognizing the deep harm suffered by these communities.
With living conditions in temporary shelters described as unsustainable and dangerous, HRW criticizes Israeli authorities for failing to provide necessary conditions for safe return to homes or even adequate living situations within claimed 'safe zones.' Testimonies from internal refugees echo the despair felt, highlighting the substantial humanitarian crisis enveloping Gaza. Omar's situation is just one of many that illustrates the urgent need for renewed focus and global awareness towards this issue.
The ongoing conflict has begun to raise difficult questions regarding the treatment of civilians under international humanitarian law. Reports of systematic forced displacement and the accompanying human cost signal a turning point that demands urgent attention and action from the international community.
Related Sources: