There are no military reasons that can justify the displacement of almost the entire population of Gaza - often repeatedly, states Human Rights Watch (HRW). According to the human rights organization's assessment, Israel has thereby committed war crimes and crimes against humanity, they write in a report.
Israel's warfare is in violation of the laws of war, believes the organization.
"The Israeli government cannot claim to be protecting Palestinians when they kill them along escape routes, bomb so-called safe zones, and cut off food, water, and healthcare", says Nadia Hardman, refugee and migration researcher at HRW.
Demands investigation
HRW urges the international community to respond by imposing sanctions and stopping arms sales to Israel. They also call on the International Criminal Court (ICC) to investigate the forced displacements - and the prevention of return for those forced to flee - as crimes against humanity.
Israel, however, denies the allegations.
"Time and again, Human Rights Watch's rhetoric about Israel's actions in Gaza is completely false and detached from reality", writes Oren Marmorstein, spokesperson for the country's foreign ministry, on X.
Must be allowed to return quickly
The laws of war, among other things, stipulate that the forced displacement of civilians may only occur in exceptional cases, for absolutely necessary military reasons, or for the population's safety. If displacement does occur, there must be security guarantees and organized housing for those forced from their homes.
Furthermore, those displaced must be allowed to return home as soon as possible - but instead, Israel has deliberately made large parts of Gaza uninhabitable, states HRW.
