Thousands of Palestinian civilians in Gaza were once again forced to flee their homes and shelters this week as the Israeli military ordered evacuations from several neighborhoods in Khan Younis and central Gaza. The evacuations came after the Israeli military issued multiple orders to flee, affecting an estimated 250,000 people and disrupting the movement of aid, according to the United Nations.
One of those affected by the evacuation orders was Mohammed Aborjela, who had been sheltering in Deir al-Balah. After receiving a recorded message from the Israeli military, he fled to Al-Mawasi, only to face shelling from tanks that reached the tents where people were seeking shelter.
The Israeli military stated that it takes precautions to mitigate civilian harm but intensified its operational activities in the area after intelligence indicated the presence of Hamas infrastructure and fighters. This has led to a surge in displaced people seeking refuge in hospitals, including the Al-Aqsa Martyrs Hospital in Deir al-Balah.
The Gaza Health Ministry has called on the international community and the United Nations to protect the overcrowded hospital as the Israeli military offensive approaches its vicinity. Despite assurances from the Israeli military that hospitals do not need to evacuate, concerns remain about the safety of medical facilities in the conflict zone.
The ongoing conflict has forced more than 90 percent of Gaza’s population to leave their homes since the war began, with essential health services being severely impacted. International law experts have emphasized Israel’s responsibility to protect civilians, while U.S. officials have called for more safeguards for Gazans.
For many like Majdi Nassar, who has had to flee multiple times during the war, the constant fear and uncertainty have taken a toll. “Death is no longer the worst scenario,” he said. “This life is much worse. The scene of thousands of people running for their lives every day is unbearable.”
As the conflict continues to escalate, the plight of Palestinian civilians in Gaza remains a pressing humanitarian concern that requires urgent international attention and action.
