UN reports largest evacuation order in Gaza since October

The United Nations has raised alarms over Israel's recent evacuation order in Gaza, marking it as the largest since October. This directive affects approximately 250,000 people residing in the Khan Younis and Rafah areas of southern Gaza. The evacuation order, issued by the Israel Defense Forces (IDF), comes amid escalating tensions and ongoing military operations in the region.

Massive Displacement and Humanitarian Concerns

The UN spokesperson, Stephane Dujarric, highlighted the severe implications of such a large-scale evacuation. "An evacuation of such a massive scale will only heighten the suffering of civilians and drive humanitarian needs even higher," Dujarric stated. He emphasized the impossible choice faced by the residents: relocating to areas with scarce resources or staying in zones where heavy fighting is expected.

The evacuation order covers an area of 117 square kilometers, encompassing about a third of the Gaza Strip. This region includes more than 90 schools, most of which are currently housing displaced individuals, and four medical points. The directive has led to significant displacement, with many residents forced to flee multiple times in search of safety.

Impact on Health and Infrastructure

The humanitarian impact of the evacuation is profound. Hospitals and medical facilities are under immense strain, with the European Hospital in Khan Younis being forced to evacuate hundreds of patients. This situation is exacerbated by ongoing artillery attacks and airstrikes, which have resulted in casualties and further destruction of infrastructure.

Sigrid Kaag, the UN's senior humanitarian and reconstruction coordinator for Gaza, reported a significant drop in the volume of aid entering Gaza since the military operations began. "Military activity and the lack of safe routes inside Gaza continue to severely impact humanitarian operations," Kaag noted. She also mentioned the near-total breakdown of civil order, leading to an environment of lawlessness and criminality.

International Reactions and Calls for Restraint

The international community has expressed deep concern over the situation. Various countries and organizations have called for restraint and urged Israel to avoid further escalation. The Egyptian Ministry of Foreign Affairs warned that an attack on Rafah would create "extreme humanitarian dangers." Similarly, the European Union's foreign policy chief, Josep Borrell, urged Israel to renounce a ground offensive and implement UN Security Council resolutions.

In response to the evacuation order, a resident of the targeted zone, Ahmad Najjar, expressed the widespread fear and anxiety among the people. "Fear and extreme anxiety have gripped people after the evacuation order," Najjar said, highlighting the large displacement of residents.

Historical Context and Ongoing Conflict

The current evacuation order is part of a broader conflict that began on October 7, when Hamas militants launched an attack on southern Israel, resulting in significant casualties and the taking of hostages. Israel's retaliatory offensive has led to extensive destruction and a high death toll in Gaza. According to the Gaza health ministry, nearly 38,000 people have been killed since the conflict began.

The ongoing conflict and repeated evacuations have left the residents of Gaza in a state of perpetual displacement and insecurity. The UN and various humanitarian organizations continue to call for immediate measures to protect civilians and ensure the delivery of essential aid.