UN: Israeli “Evacuation Orders” in Gaza Are Actually Displacement Orders

Gaza (Quds News Network)- The UN Human Rights Office (OHCHR) warned that Israel’s so-called “evacuation orders” in Gaza are, in fact, forced displacement orders. These directives have pushed Palestinians into overcrowded, unsafe areas with no access to food, water, shelter, or medicine.

Since March 18, Israeli forces issued 21 evacuation orders, including one on March 31 that targeted nearly all of Rafah. Israel then launched a large ground operation in the same area. Tens of thousands of Palestinians were already trapped in Rafah, especially in Tal Al-Sultan, with no safe exit or aid.

According to OHCHR, these orders could signal an intent to permanently remove civilians and create a “buffer zone.” That would violate the Fourth Geneva Convention and could amount to a crime against humanity under the Rome Statute.

Meanwhile, Israel continues to strike across Gaza. From March 18 to April 9, Israeli attacks hit 224 residential sites, including tents for displaced families. In 36 confirmed incidents, only women and children were killed. One airstrike on April 6 in Deir al-Balah killed a young girl, four women, and a four-year-old boy.

Despite Israeli claims of safe zones like Al-Mawasi in Khan Younis, strikes continue there. OHCHR recorded at least 23 attacks on tents in that area since March 18.

Journalists are also under fire. On April 6–7, an Israeli strike hit a tent outside Khan Younis’ Nasser Medical Complex, where journalists were staying. One journalist and a media assistant died; nine others were injured. Israel later claimed one injured person was a Hamas member, but offered no clear evidence.

Since October 2023, Israeli attacks have killed over 209 journalists in Gaza. Israel also continues to block international media from entering.

The UN warned these actions raise serious legal concerns. Direct attacks on civilians not involved in combat violate international humanitarian law and can constitute war crimes.

The humanitarian crisis deepens as Israel’s blockade of Gaza enters its sixth week. No food, medicine, or clean water is entering the strip. Israeli officials have suggested aid may depend on Israeli prisoners releases, a stance the UN says could amount to collective punishment and the use of starvation as a weapon — both considered war crimes.

OHCHR said these conditions threaten the very survival of Palestinians in Gaza.