UN: Israeli siege of Gaza and evacuation order constitute crime of forcible transfer of civilians

(Patria) - The United Nations Human Rights Office said today that Israel's siege of Gaza and the evacuation order could constitute an international crime of forcible transfer of civilians.

"We are concerned that this order, combined with the imposition of a complete siege on Gaza, cannot be considered a lawful temporary evacuation and would therefore constitute the forcible transfer of civilians in violation of international law," Reuters quoted Ravina Shamdasani, spokesperson for the UN Human Rights Office, as saying.

The term "forcible transfer" describes the forced relocation of a civilian population and is a crime against humanity punishable by the International Criminal Court.

The warning comes from the UN agency for Palestinian refugees, UNRWA.

They say that dwindling fuel reserves are expected to run out entirely, amid the escalating humanitarian crisis.

Hospitals in Gaza are already relying on backup generators, and the cutting of electricity would endanger the lives of thousands of patients.

Hospital morgues are overflowing with the dead.

At least 2,800 people have been killed in Gaza, and more than 11,000 have been injured since the Israeli attacks began.

There have been 115 attacks on healthcare facilities in the area, a UN agency official said.

Dr. Peeperkorn said that WHO will hold talks in Egypt today to try to convince decision-makers to allow aid through the Rafah border crossing as soon as possible.