Israeli Army Orders Mass Evacuation in Khan Younis
Evacuation Order Signals New Assault
The Israeli army has issued a mass evacuation order for Palestinians in the eastern half of Khan Younis and surrounding areas, indicating a possible new ground assault in Gaza’s second-largest city. This move follows repeated Israeli raids into parts of Gaza over the past eight months, targeting Hamas militants.
Destruction and Displacement
Much of Khan Younis had already suffered significant destruction earlier this year. Many Palestinians had returned to Khan Younis to escape another offensive in Rafah, Gaza’s southernmost city. The current evacuation order has forced these residents to flee once again, highlighting the ongoing humanitarian crisis in the region.
Release of Gaza Hospital Director
The evacuation order coincides with Israel’s release of Mohammed Abu Selmia, the director of Gaza’s main hospital, who had been detained for seven months without charge. He was accused of allowing the hospital to be used as a Hamas command center. Abu Selmia and other Palestinian health officials have denied these allegations.
Allegations of Torture
Abu Selmia, upon his release, alleged that he and other detainees were subjected to harsh conditions and torture. He claimed that guards broke his finger, caused head injuries, and used batons and dogs during beatings. He also accused medical staff of participating in the abuse, leading to severe health issues for some detainees, including amputations.
Controversy Over Release
The release of Abu Selmia has sparked outrage across Israel’s political spectrum. Government ministers and opposition leaders have criticized the decision, with some insisting that Abu Selmia played a role in Hamas’ activities. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has ordered an inquiry into the matter, though his office noted that security officials independently determine detainee releases based on professional considerations.
Shifa Hospital Raids
Israeli forces raided Shifa Hospital in November, claiming it was being used by Hamas. Although they uncovered a tunnel and other evidence of militant presence, the findings fell short of initial claims. The military has raided other Gaza hospitals on similar grounds, leading to their shutdown or reduced services amid ongoing conflict.
Humanitarian Crisis
Since the war began following Hamas’ attack on October 7, which resulted in the death of 1,200 Israeli civilians and the kidnapping of 250 more, Israeli forces have detained thousands of Palestinians. Many are held without charge in overcrowded detention centers. The conflict has led to severe humanitarian conditions, with Gaza’s Health Ministry reporting over 37,900 Palestinian deaths and widespread displacement among the population of 2.3 million.
International Law and Hospitals
Under international law, hospitals can lose their protection if used for military purposes, but assaults on them must be proportional to the threat. The ongoing conflict and allegations of hospital misuse have complicated the delivery of humanitarian aid, contributing to widespread hunger and fears of famine in Gaza.
Political Fallout
The release of Abu Selmia has led to a blame game among Israeli officials. National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir accused the Defense Ministry of security negligence, while opposition leader Yair Lapid criticized the government’s handling of detainees. The Defense Ministry and prison service have shifted responsibility to the Shin Bet and the army.
As the conflict continues, the humanitarian situation in Gaza remains dire, with the international community calling for increased aid and a resolution to the ongoing violence.