Title: Gaza: the accusation of mass expulsion of Palestinians in Egypt
Introduction :
The humanitarian crisis in the Gaza Strip continues to worsen following the deadly conflict between Israel and Hamas. While Gaza’s civilian population is largely confined to the besieged territory, the head of the United Nations Palestinian Refugee Agency (UNRWA), Philippe Lazzarini, accuses Israel of preparing the mass expulsion of Gaza residents to the Egypt. This accusation has been categorically denied by Israel.
Massive population movements:
For more than two months, clashes between Israel and Hamas have caused the displacement of most of the population of Gaza. According to Lazzarini, the growing concentration of displaced civilians near the border, first in the north and then in the south of Gaza, is a worrying sign. He says these developments indicate an attempt to move Palestinians to Egypt, whether to stay there or be resettled elsewhere.
A new Nakba in sight?
Lazzarini emphasizes that the massive destruction in northern Gaza and the resulting displacement constitute the first step in such a project. The next step would be to force civilians in the town of Khan Younis closer to the Egyptian border. According to him, if this path continues, many experts are already talking about a second Nakba, Gaza will no longer be a land for Palestinians. The term Nakba refers to the exodus or forced displacement of 760,000 Palestinians during the 1948 war, which coincided with the creation of Israel.
Israel’s response:
In response to the accusations, an Israeli Defense Ministry spokesperson responsible for Palestinian civil affairs said there had never been an Israeli plan to move Gaza residents to Egypt. He calls this accusation purely false.
The issue of voluntary resettlement:
It is worth noting that Israeli Intelligence Minister Gila Gamliel mentioned the possibility of promoting the voluntary resettlement of Palestinians from Gaza outside the Strip, for humanitarian reasons, after the war. Some former Israeli officials have also suggested in television interviews that Egypt could build vast tent camps in its Sinai desert, with international funding.
Conclusion :
The humanitarian crisis in Gaza continues to worsen and the accusation of mass expulsion of Palestinians to Egypt raises serious concerns. The current situation requires international attention and an urgent response to prevent an imminent humanitarian catastrophe. The world’s nations and humanitarian organizations must work together to find a peaceful and lasting solution to this complex conflict to ensure the security and well-being of all people in the region.