UN Human Rights Chief Denounces Forced Relocation in Rafah as Inhumane

Geneva, UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Turk condemned the recent orders by Israel for Palestinians in Rafah to evacuate, describing the directive as inhumane and a violation of international laws. The announcement comes amidst escalating military operations in the region, which have already resulted in significant civilian casualties and disruptions.

According to Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights, Turk expressed grave concern over the increasing civilian deaths and the exacerbation of suffering due to the intensified military actions in Rafah. He highlighted the severe implications of relocating hundreds of thousands of people to already devastated areas lacking basic necessities and access to humanitarian aid.

The situation in Rafah deteriorated overnight with at least 26 Palestinians reported killed, predominantly women and children. The closure of two critical crossings into Rafah has also halted the minimal inflow of humanitarian assistance, compounding the dire conditions on the ground.

Turk emphasized the disproportionate impact of the conflict on women and children, who constitute over 70 percent of the casualties in the past seven months. He urgently called for a ceasefire, the unrestricted flow of humanitarian aid, and the immediate release of hostages and those detained arbitrarily.

The High Commissioner also noted that no alternative locations in Gaza possess the infrastructure to support the over one million displaced individuals if evacuation proceeds. He stressed that international humanitarian law strictly prohibits the forced displacement of civilians unless absolutely necessary for their safety or for critical military reasons, and any failure to adhere to these laws may constitute a war crime.

Turk concluded with a stern reminder that those violating international humanitarian and human rights laws must be held accountable, as the ongoing conflict continues to place civilians at grave risk.