“Hopeless, Starving, and Besieged”; Israel’s Forced Displacement of Palestinians in Gaza

Israeli authorities have caused the massive, deliberate forced displacement of Palestinian civilians in Gaza since October 2023 and are responsible for war crimes and crimes against humanity. Israeli evacuation orders, attacks on so-called safe zones, and arbitrary restrictions to humanitarian aid have caused enormous harm to Palestinian civilians. Contrary to claims by Israeli officials, the forced displacement of Palestinians in Gaza does not comply with the laws of war.

“Hopeless, Starving, and Besieged” examines how Israeli authorities’ conduct has led to the displacement of 1.9 million Palestinians and the widespread destruction of much of Gaza over the last 13 months. The report is based on interviews with 39 displaced Palestinians in Gaza and analysis of Israel’s evacuation system, including 184 evacuation orders, satellite imagery confirming the widespread destruction, and verified videos and photographs of attacks on designated safe zones and evacuation routes.

As the occupying power, Israel is obliged to ensure adequate facilities to accommodate displaced civilians, but the authorities have blocked all but a small fraction of the necessary humanitarian aid, water, electricity, and fuel from reaching civilians in need in Gaza. Israeli attacks have also rendered swathes of Gaza uninhabitable. Israel’s military has intentionally demolished or severely damaged civilian infrastructure, including in areas its forces control.

Human Rights Watch calls on the International Criminal Court to investigate Israel’s forced displacement in Gaza. The United States, Germany, and other countries should immediately suspend weapons transfers and military assistance to Israel. Continuing to provide arms to Israel risks complicity in war crimes, crimes against humanity, and other grave human rights violations.