Human Rights Watch Accuses Israel of Forcible Displacement in Gaza, Citing Possible War Crimes

Human Rights Watch (HRW) has released a report accusing Israel of war crimes related to the alleged forced displacement of Palestinian civilians in Gaza. The international human rights organization contends that Israel’s evacuation orders have resulted in the “massive forced displacement” of civilians and argues this policy could qualify as a war crime under international law. Israel, meanwhile, insists that its actions are aimed at safeguarding its citizens and mitigating risks from militant groups.

HRW’s 154-page report, titled Hopeless, Starving, and Besieged: Israel’s Forced Displacement of Palestinians in Gaza, provides extensive documentation of what it describes as systematic forced displacement by the Israeli military. According to HRW, the evacuation orders, which have displaced over 1.9 million Palestinians, were implemented without adequate protection or resources for those fleeing, exacerbating a humanitarian crisis. HRW warns that these actions could constitute crimes against humanity, as they may violate the Geneva Conventions and the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court.

UN accuses Israel of stifling humanitarian aid to Gaza pic.twitter.com/VyTx72pav5

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The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF), in response, stated that their operations are in line with international law and that the displacement is necessary for “military reasons,” primarily to address threats from militant groups in densely populated civilian areas. Israel asserts that the evacuations aim to protect civilians as it targets Hamas and other militant factions operating from within Gaza.

According to the report, HRW documents several cases where displaced civilians were unable to find safety, facing bombardment en route to or within so-called “safe zones.” Statements from Israeli officials indicate the forced displacement aligns with national security objectives, raising concerns that it is part of broader state policy rather than isolated incidents. The report emphasizes the severe impact on civilians, who, HRW claims, lack access to essential resources due to restrictions on aid and mobility within Gaza.

The report also highlights Israel’s security justification, stating that military infrastructure such as tunnels operated by armed groups is often situated in civilian zones. HRW argues, however, that any actions targeting these areas must prioritize civilian safety, per international law, and claims Israel has not provided the necessary conditions for safe evacuations, including ensuring food, water, and medical care for those displaced.

HRW calls on the International Criminal Court to investigate these displacements and urges international governments to reconsider arms sales to Israel to avoid potential complicity in alleged war crimes. Israel’s government maintains that these operations are defensive, citing ongoing hostilities and security threats from within Gaza as justifications for their military approach.