Thousands of people in Gaza are fleeing west toward Al Mawasi after the Israeli military issued a new evacuation order on Thursday, according to UN humanitarian partners on the ground.
The directive affects people located in parts of eastern and central Khan Younis as well as the Al Salqa area of Deir Al-Balah.
Initial estimates indicate that more than 15,500 people were living in those areas, which comprise more than 30 neighborhoods, according to UN partners monitoring population movements in Gaza.
UN deputy spokesperson Farhan Haq emphasized the need for all parties to the conflict to respect their obligations under international humanitarian law, including allowing civilians to leave for safer areas and receive humanitarian assistance.
The UN Humanitarian Affairs Office (OCHA) reported that Palestinians in Gaza continue to face major health risks due to constraints on water production and sewage pumping. The lack of generators, alternative energy sources, and spare parts is hampering efforts to scale up water, sanitation, and hygiene services.
The World Food Programme (WFP) also warned that ongoing hostilities and damaged infrastructure have severely hampered food transport operations in Gaza, forcing rations to be reduced. WFP urgently needs fuel deliveries and increased flow of food supplies to meet the demand.
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