Geneva: The UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Turk, warned on Tuesday that the latest Israeli occupation military operations in southwestern Deir El Balah, in the Gaza Strip, may amount to war crimes and, under certain circumstances, to crimes against humanity. "I remind Israel that permanently displacing people living under its occupation would amount to unlawful transfer, which is a war crime and in some cases, may also constitute a crime against humanity," Turk said in a press release.
According to Kuwait News Agency, Turk emphasized that the recent Israeli displacement orders, followed by intensive attacks on southwestern Deir El Balah, have exacerbated the suffering of Palestinians in the area. He highlighted the risks posed by Israeli airstrikes and ground operations, noting that they will inevitably lead to further civilian casualties and the destruction of civilian infrastructure. Turk expressed grave concerns about the high concentration of civilians in the targeted area and the warfare methods employed by Israel, suggesting that the likelihood of unlawful killings and violations of international humanitarian law remains high.
Turk also pointed out that the area affected by the attacks hosts several humanitarian organizations, including clinics, medical facilities, shelters, and other critical infrastructure. With homes destroyed and thousands of residents forced to flee, the displaced population has little choice but to relocate to the increasingly crowded zones of Gaza. This situation complicates efforts to deliver humanitarian aid, as even these zones are not immune to danger.
Turk urged Israel, as the occupying power, to fulfill its obligations by ensuring the provision of food, medical supplies, and other essential resources to the population. He called for the immediate and unconditional entry and distribution of humanitarian aid to those in need. Furthermore, Turk stressed the necessity of halting further military operations, advocating for an end to the killings, destruction, and widespread violations of international law. He concluded by noting the growing international support for action to address the ongoing crisis.