UN Reports 1.9 Million Displaced in Gaza Amid Ongoing Conflict
The ongoing conflict in Gaza has led to the displacement of 1.9 million Palestinians, according to the United Nations. The UN humanitarian coordinator for Gaza, Sigrid Kaag, expressed deep concern over the worsening humanitarian crisis and recent expulsion orders affecting Khan Younis.
“More than a million people are forced to flee once again for safe shelter. More than 1.9 million displaced in Gaza,” Kaag said in her briefing to the UN Security Council on Tuesday. She raised concern about new warnings that have been issued ordering people to evacuate areas in and around khan Younis.
Among the orders issued by the Israeli military which at least 250,000 persons according to the United Nations are affected are the orders to evacuate Al Qarara, Bani Suhaila and other localities near Khan Younis. This displacement contributes to the already existing and worsening humanitarian problem in this region of the world.
“Gaza’s Palestinian civilians continue suffering, homeless and helpless: the war did not dig into merely creating the deepest humanitarian catastrophe but has opened a whirl of human suffering. ” the official pointed out.
Kaag underlined the necessity of delivering increased assistance to the encircled area. She urged the coordination of the establishment of new crossings, especially in the south of Gaza, to prevent further catastrophe. In particular, she demanded the reopening of the Rafah crossing between the Gaza Strip and Egypt and demanded the international community contribute more money for relief operations.
The conflict started on October 7, after Palestinian resistance forces attacked the southern part of Israel, killing 1,195 people, an AFP count based on Israeli estimates shows, and ever since it has worsened. The health ministry of the Palestinian Authority in Gaza indicated that there were 37,925 fatalities mostly children and women.
The Israeli defence force has not declared preparedness for an operation in the southern strip of Gaza openly. However, other military orders have generally been issued before major confrontations, introducing concern about more aggression/displacement in the region.
One cannot help but notice the catastrophic situation in the Gaza Strip and the necessity of intervention and assistance from other countries. The recent cyclone destroyed thousands of homes causing nearly 2 million people displaced and access to aid has become almost impossible. The UN has now raised the call for more aid and opening of crossings which are very essential in meeting the needs of the affected people by conflict.
As things stand, and as the situation changes, the involvement of international society will be of paramount importance in providing succour and support to the displaced people of the Gaza Strip. The situation also shows that violent conflict continues to have horrific effects on the affected communities and touches upon the need to restore peace.
