The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have come under fire for forcibly evacuating Palestinians from northern Gaza, a move former Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn has labelled “textbook ethnic cleansing.”
IDF’s Northern Gaza Evacuations
Israeli forces are pushing for what they term a “complete evacuation” of northern Gaza. In a recent briefing, Brigadier General Itzik Cohen confirmed that residents would not be allowed to return home. The decision, according to Cohen, comes after repeated operations in areas like the Jabaliya camp.
Limited Humanitarian Aid in North Gaza
While humanitarian aid is set to enter southern Gaza regularly, the IDF has restricted aid to the northern areas, citing a lack of remaining civilians. This measure has raised concerns internationally about the impact on vulnerable populations left without basic resources.
Corbyn’s Criticism on Social Media
Jeremy Corbyn took to social media, describing the IDF’s actions as ethnic cleansing, sparking a heated debate online. He criticised the indefinite evacuation as denying Palestinians the right to return home.
Rights Groups Warn of Forced Transfer
Legal experts argue that these actions could amount to war crimes, specifically the forcible transfer of civilians and withholding essential supplies as a tactic of war. Despite this, an IDF spokesperson insisted that Cohen’s comments were misinterpreted and did not reflect IDF policy.
IDF Strategy and Population Displacement
Although Israel denies plans for permanent resettlement, officials have hinted that, in the absence of alternatives, annexing parts of Gaza is under consideration. Recent footage shows families, some without food or shelter, fleeing south through ruined areas of Gaza City.
Hezbollah Conflict Escalates in Lebanon
Meanwhile, Israel’s conflict with Hezbollah, now in its second month, continues to escalate. Recent airstrikes in Lebanon killed dozens, including many civilians, while Hezbollah has responded with rocket attacks on Tel Aviv.
You may also like: WATCH: The night Obama mocked Trump into a presidential run
