The current war in Gaza is the continuation of a long history of forced displacement of Palestinians by Israeli forces, shows a new report, commissioned by ActionAid and Oxfam.
Currently there are 2 million Gazans internally displaced in the tiny 41 kilometre long territory, which is about half the size of Canberra.
The report (attached) shows the current war is but only the latest chapter in a long history of displacement and expulsion which has overshadowed Palestinian existence since the start of the British Mandate in 1922.
In just the last 15 years Israeli forces have carried out armed incursions in 2008/9 which displaced 50,000 Gazans, in 2014, 100,000 were displaced and in 2021, when 113,000 were internally displaced.
ActionAid Executive Director Michelle Higelin said the report shows a pattern of behaviour.
“This report shows what we are currently seeing in Gaza is the latest chapter in a long history of displacement and expulsion which has been going on for over 100 years,” said Ms Higelin.
“We are seeing starvation and displacement on a massive scale.
“Imagine two million people trying to avoid unrelenting attacks in a space half the size of Canberra, not the ACT, the city of Canberra, those not killed by missiles and bombs face hunger and homelessness with insufficient aid getting in.
“Thirteen thousand children are already dead and with each day that passes, many more are dying of starvation.
“Women with newborns are enduring horrific conditions which would appal any mother.
“The Australian government needs to call on the Israeli government to stop this war. Accountability for the death of aid workers is essential but we also need to see accountability for forced displacement which is a breach of international law,” said Ms Higelin.
Report is attached below.
