GAZA STRIP - The United Nations has expressed concern over the scope and impact of evacuation orders issued by the Israeli military in the Gaza Strip, which currently affect more than 85 percent of the territory. These orders have led to significant humanitarian challenges, including the disruption of aid delivery and repeated displacements of families.
According to the Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA), as detailed by UN spokesman Stephane Dujarric during a recent news conference, more than 55 active evacuation orders have been enforced across Gaza as of September 16. "The most recent order was issued for northern Gaza last Saturday," Dujarric stated, emphasizing the severe constraints these orders place on the delivery of humanitarian assistance. From September 1 to 15, only 39 percent of the planned humanitarian missions in northern Gaza were executed, compared to just over 50 percent in southern Gaza.
Dujarric also highlighted the perilous conditions faced by aid convoys, including attacks and delays, which further complicate relief efforts in combat zones. The inability to access northern Gaza for 28 consecutive days has exacerbated the situation, leaving vulnerable populations without necessary aid.
During the news conference, when questioned about the nature of these evacuations, Dujarric described them as forced, leaving residents with minimal options for survival. He reiterated the necessity of protection for all individuals, regardless of their decision to relocate or remain in place, and stressed the urgent need for uninterrupted humanitarian aid.
The situation in Gaza has continued to deteriorate amid ongoing military operations by Israel following an attack by Hamas on October 7. Local health authorities report that since then, over 41,200 people, predominantly women and children, have been killed, with more than 95,400 injured. The extensive displacement has nearly emptied the territory, with the ongoing blockade severely limiting access to essential supplies like food, water, and medical services.