Mass displacement from northeast Gaza City as 'Israeli' attacks intensify

Mass displacement from northeastern Gaza City began Friday evening as 'Israeli' attacks intensified from the north and south, targeting entire neighborhoods.

Residents fled toward western Gaza City and southern areas amid escalating bombardment.

Reports from Gaza confirmed that the conditions in the city’s eastern neighborhoods are deteriorating “at a rapidly accelerating pace” due to 'Israel’s' intensified offensive. 

The Palestinian government condemned 'Israeli' claims about “empty areas” in southern Gaza, calling them false and misleading. Officials said these claims are being used to justify forced displacement and mask a mounting humanitarian crisis affecting hundreds of thousands already uprooted by months of bombardment.

According to Palestinian authorities, southern and central Gaza are overcrowded with more than 1.25 million internally displaced people. Most “available” areas cited by 'Israel', including Al-Mawasi and central camps, are privately owned, limited in size, or exposed to military threats, making them unsuitable for human habitation.

The government stressed that any forced transfer would constitute a war crime under international law, including Article 49 of the Fourth Geneva Convention. Palestinian officials described 'Israel’s' displacement efforts as part of a documented policy of ethnic cleansing and urged the international community to take immediate action.

Humanitarian conditions in Gaza are worsening rapidly. Since August 22, 44 deaths due to malnutrition have been recorded in northern Gaza, including six children. Aid currently reaches only 14 percent of actual needs through limited crossings at Karm Abu Salem, Kisufim, and Zikim. Since mid-July, over 322 deaths, including 121 children, have been attributed to hunger and malnutrition.

Earlier today, the 'Israeli' military declared Gaza City a “dangerous combat zone,” with preliminary operations on the outskirts underway as it prepares to seize control. Gaza City, home to nearly 694,000 people, has seen more than 95 percent of recent forced displacements, totaling around 756,000 residents according to UN reports.

Despite the siege, bombardment, and forced displacement, Palestinians continue to resist. The government called on the international community, UN bodies, and humanitarian organizations to urgently intervene. “Solidarity with the steadfast population of Gaza is a moral and humanitarian duty,” the statement said.