Israel Requests Evacuation of 5 UNRWA Agency Centers, Alarming Arab Employees
Israeli Army Demands Evacuation of UNRWA Centers in Gaza
The Israeli army has issued a demand for the evacuation of four out of five centers owned by the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA). These centers are situated in the Tel el-Heva region in southwest Gaza, while the remaining center is located in the Ansar Complex area in the west of the city.
Mohammed Shuveydeh, Secretary of the UNRWA Arab Employees Union, expressed concern over the Israeli army’s request, highlighting the fact that thousands of people who have fled the attacks are currently seeking refuge in these centers. Shuveydeh emphasized that these individuals have no other safer place to go, making the evacuation of the centers highly problematic.
This recent development comes in the wake of a tragic incident on October 17, when six individuals lost their lives during an attack by Israel on a UNRWA school in al-Magazi Refugee Camp. The incident sparked outrage and renewed calls for the protection of innocent civilians in Gaza.
Prior to this demand, Israel had already requested the immediate evacuation of the Jerusalem Hospital, situated in the south of the heavily blockaded Gaza strip. This request was made under the pretext of preparing for possible bombings. In response, the Palestinian Red Crescent issued a statement, revealing that the Israeli occupation forces had threatened to bomb the Jerusalem Hospital.
The situation in Gaza remains highly volatile, with the Israeli army intensifying its attacks on various targets. The UNRWA centers have become a crucial refuge for those fleeing the violence, providing protection and care for the displaced population. The demand for their evacuation raises concerns about the safety and well-being of innocent civilians in the region.
The international community, human rights organizations, and stakeholders are called upon to denounce the Israeli army’s demand and to ensure the protection of those seeking shelter in the UNRWA centers. Efforts must be made to find a peaceful resolution to the ongoing conflict and to prevent further loss of life and suffering in Gaza.
