Israel continues to displace civilians in Gaza

GAZA, Palestine (AA) – Israel continues to forcibly displace Palestinians living in Khan Younis in the southern Gaza Strip, which is under intense air and ground attacks by Israeli forces.

Following threats from the Israeli army to target civilian settlements, many Palestinians from the eastern areas of Khan Younis were forcibly displaced to a so-called “humanitarian zone” in the Al-Mawasi area close to the city.

Areas in the east such as Cura al-Lut, Ash-Sheikh Nasir, Al-Ketibeh and Jalal Street along with the western region of 5th Street in Khan Younis have been subjected to intense Israeli bombardment in recent days, leading to mounting casualties.

Huzeyfe Sebir, previously displaced from Gaza City to Khan Younis, said that the search for a safe area continues and they recently moved from Cura el-Lut to Rafah.

Sebir said they received an evacuation call from the Israeli army due to the intense attacks in Gaza. As part of the attacks, the army threatened and evacuated dozens of settlements in Khan Younis.

He said the army targeted many homes in Cura el-Lut, resulting in numerous casualties.

Ahmed Al-Ferra said that the Israeli army sent text messages to residents’ phones instructing them to relocate to the Al-Mawasi area.

“This area is sandy land lacking all the basic necessities for life. It is not suitable for living, with no food or water, and there is no suitable place for settlement,” said Al-Ferra.

He said he set up a tent in the area hoping it is safe for his family but fears that like other “safe” areas, the Israeli army might target Al-Mawasi.

UN High Commissioner for Refugees Filippo Grandi has yet again urgently called for a humanitarian cease-fire to prevent further mass displacements in Gaza.

Grandi emphasized that if mass displacements were not prevented, solving this problem would become impossible and it would jeopardize the chances of achieving any semblance of peace in the future.