Israel Orders 400,000 Gazans to Relocate South Amid Expanded Military Operations: UN
Israeli authorities have ordered over 400,000 residents in northern Gaza, specifically north of Wadi Gaza, to move south, while simultaneously tightening access restrictions and escalating military operations in the northern region, according to UN humanitarian officials.
The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) expressed deep concern about the deteriorating situation in northern Gaza. The office reported that crossing points into the area remain largely closed to humanitarian and commercial supplies, with checkpoints allowing only limited civilian movement south and minimal humanitarian access to the north.
OCHA warned that these developments are leading to the shutdown of essential services. The UN Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) noted that seven schools housing displaced individuals are being evacuated, and only two of the eight water wells in the Jabalya refugee camp are operational.
“The north is also facing severe shortages of bread and food supplies,” OCHA stated, highlighting that the only bakery supported by the World Food Programme (WFP) in Jabalya was destroyed by explosive munitions.
On Wednesday, OCHA and the World Health Organization attempted to reach northern Gaza to assist Kamal Adwan Hospital, which had been ordered to evacuate. After receiving initial approval from Israeli authorities, the mission was delayed for hours at a holding point and ultimately had to be canceled.
Despite these challenges, OCHA noted that aid workers are striving to provide support to those in northern Gaza. UNRWA is distributing high-energy biscuits from WFP to children in designated shelters, delivering bread bundles to families in specific areas, and providing hot meals to newly displaced families. Additionally, water is being transported to affected areas using trucks.
