The recent report by Human Rights Watch (HRW) has stirred significant controversy by accusing Israel of committing war crimes and crimes against humanity in Gaza. The organization claims the Israeli government is deliberately orchestrating the mass displacement of Palestinians, particularly as numerous individuals flee the ongoing violence following military operations. Notably, nearly 1.9 million Gazans—approximately 90% of the territory’s population—have been compelled to evacuate their homes, with the United Nations estimating that 79% of Gaza is under evacuation orders issued by Israeli authorities.
HRW’s findings suggest that these actions constitute what’s known as “forcible transfer,” arguing that they are systematic and part of a broader state policy that meets the definition of ethnic cleansing. This assertion has been firmly rejected by Israeli officials, who claim the report is completely detached from reality. Israeli Foreign Ministry spokesperson Oren Marmorstein emphasized that the military operations are solely aimed at dismantling Hamas’s military capabilities and that the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) are committed to operating under the laws of armed conflict.
The backdrop to these allegations is an intensified Israeli ground offensive in northern Gaza that has displaced up to 130,000 individuals in just five weeks. This escalation coincides with a humanitarian crisis, as reports indicate approximately 75,000 people remain trapped in towns like Jabalia, Beit Lahia, and Beit Hanoun, facing dire shortages of water and food. In this context, HRW has also accused Hamas of utilizing civilians as human shields by embedding their operations within civilian infrastructure.
Legal experts underscore that under international law, the forced displacement of civilians in occupied territories is strictly prohibited unless expressly justified for security reasons. Should such displacement occur, it must be executed safely, with provisions for the displaced individuals’ accommodation and basic needs, as well as a guarantee that they may return to their homes post-conflict. The HRW report contests that no compelling military justification exists for the extensive displacement observed, and that the requisite legal standards have not been adhered to.
Evidence gathered by HRW—informed by interviews with witnesses, analysis of evacuation orders, and documentation of military strikes—suggests that Israeli authorities have not communicated evacuation orders clearly or effectively to many civilians, particularly vulnerable groups such as individuals with disabilities. Moreover, reports emerged that designated evacuation routes and safe zones have been targeted during military actions, complicating the efforts of civilians attempting to escape.
It is vital to note that HRW also criticizes Israel’s conduct regarding humanitarian assistance. The organization claims that Israel has largely hindered humanitarian aid delivery, including essential resources like water, electricity, and fuel, aggravating the already deteriorating living conditions for civilians. HRW’s investigation further alleges the intentional destruction of civilian infrastructure to create a strategic buffer zone along the Gaza-Israel border, with intentions to facilitate the long-term displacement of many residents.
In response to the HRW report, the IDF asserted that the narrative presented selectively misrepresents the situation while neglecting the context of their military efforts. They contend that precautions are taken to avoid civilian casualties and that military operations are confined to areas known to house military presence rather than targeting civilians indiscriminately.
While the unfolding conflict and humanitarian situation remains distressing, this debate over legality and ethics plays out against a backdrop of political tension. Notably, a UN General Assembly special committee recently released a report asserting that Israel’s actions during its military campaign align with characteristics of genocide, which Israel has vehemently denied, stating that they are committed to adhering to international law.
Further complicating the narrative, the US government has confirmed its disagreement with the assessment of genocide linked to Israeli operations in Gaza, labeling such accusations as unfounded. The contentious statements come in the wake of a violent escalation following a staggering attack by Hamas on Israel, which left approximately 1,200 Israeli citizens dead and over 250 hostages taken. In total, the ongoing conflict has resulted in the deaths of more than 43,700 individuals in Gaza, according to the health ministry affiliated with Hamas. The situation calls for urgent attention and resolution as both sides navigate the complexities of warfare and humanitarian obligations.
