Human Rights Watch Report on Gaza
A recent report by Human Rights Watch (HRW) has accused Israeli authorities of “deliberate forced displacement” of Palestinian civilians in Gaza since October 2023, labeling these actions as “war crimes and crimes against humanity.” The report, titled ‘Hopeless, Starving, and Besieged: Israel’s Forced Displacement of Palestinians in Gaza,’ details the destruction of homes and infrastructure, leading to the displacement of over 90% of Gaza’s population, approximately 1.9 million people.
Destruction and Displacement
The report highlights the controlled demolitions carried out by Israeli forces in areas designated for “buffer zones” and security “corridors,” which are likely to result in permanent displacement. HRW argues that these actions do not comply with the laws of war and lack a plausible military justification.
International Response
Nadia Hardman, a researcher at HRW, condemned the Israeli government’s actions, stating that they cannot claim to protect Palestinians while causing harm along escape routes and cutting off essential services. HRW calls for targeted sanctions and a halt to weapons sales to Israel, urging the International Criminal Court to investigate these actions as crimes against humanity.
Humanitarian Concerns
The World Health Organisation’s Director-General, Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, warned of an imminent famine in Northern Gaza if humanitarian aid is not urgently provided. He emphasized the need for immediate global action to ensure safe access to food and medicines.
Doubts Revealed
Human Rights Watch -: Human Rights Watch is an international organization that works to protect human rights around the world. They investigate and report on abuses happening in different countries.
Israel -: Israel is a country in the Middle East, located near the Mediterranean Sea. It shares borders with countries like Egypt, Jordan, and Lebanon.
Gaza -: Gaza is a small region on the eastern coast of the Mediterranean Sea. It is part of the Palestinian territories and has been a place of conflict between Israel and Palestine.
Forced Displacement -: Forced displacement means making people leave their homes against their will. This can happen because of war, natural disasters, or other reasons.
War Crimes -: War crimes are serious violations of the rules of war, which include harming civilians or destroying their homes without a good reason. These actions are considered illegal under international law.
Sanctions -: Sanctions are penalties or restrictions put on a country to make them change their behavior. This can include stopping trade or cutting off financial support.
International Criminal Court -: The International Criminal Court (ICC) is a court that investigates and tries people accused of serious crimes like genocide and war crimes. It is based in The Hague, Netherlands.
WHO -: WHO stands for the World Health Organization. It is a part of the United Nations that focuses on global health issues and helps countries improve their healthcare systems.
Famine -: Famine is a severe shortage of food that can lead to widespread hunger and even death. It usually happens when there is not enough food for people to eat.
Humanitarian Aid -: Humanitarian aid is help given to people in need, especially during emergencies like wars or natural disasters. It can include food, water, medical care, and shelter.