Israel’s intensified military operation in Gaza is displacing hundreds of thousands of Palestinians, pushing civilians into increasingly smaller zones near the coast. Since March 18, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have issued around 20 evacuation orders, affecting regions like Rafah and large parts of Gaza, with over 400,000 people forced to flee.
The United Nations reports that more than two-thirds of Gaza is now either under evacuation orders or designated as no-access zones, leaving little safe space for civilians. Refugees are living in tents amid rubble, garbage, and deteriorating sanitary conditions, with many lacking clean water, food, and medical supplies. Essential services such as bakeries and healthcare have nearly collapsed, and humanitarian efforts are restricted by Israeli coordination protocols.
Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz has confirmed that vast territories are being taken over to establish long-term security zones, effectively reducing Gaza’s size. He also hinted at a broader plan for the voluntary relocation of Gazans.
Despite Israel’s control over much of southern Gaza, Hamas remains active, and rocket fire continues. As the humanitarian crisis deepens, the displaced population faces unbearable living conditions, with many unsure where to go next. Aid remains blocked, and the ceasefire shows no sign of resuming.