UN vows to avoid forced displacement in Rafah
UN Warns Against Effects of Land Attack on Rafah
UN Spokesperson Stephane Dujarric issued a warning at the daily press conference regarding the potential devastating effects of a land attack on Rafah. The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) raised concerns about the situation, stating that the Israeli army’s evacuation order could exacerbate the current crisis.
Dujarric highlighted that directing civilians to Al-Mawasi, which is already overcrowded and unsafe, would pose significant risks. He emphasized that a mass evacuation of this magnitude cannot be carried out safely, and the UN will not be involved in any forced displacement efforts.
The looming threat of a land attack on Rafah could further deteriorate the fragile aid operations in the region. Despite the challenges, Dujarric reiterated the UN’s commitment to staying in Rafah and providing assistance as needed.
UN Secretary-General Guterres has called on all parties involved in ceasefire negotiations to intensify their efforts and has expressed readiness to offer support. Additionally, Dujarric condemned the Israeli government’s decision to shut down Al Jazeera’s operations, emphasizing the importance of press freedom for public awareness.
The Israeli army’s request for the evacuation of neighborhoods in the east of Rafah, where forcibly displaced Palestinians have sought shelter, has raised concerns. Roughly 100,000 Palestinians are residing in the area earmarked for evacuation, sparking fears of further displacement amid escalating tensions in the region.
