Gaza: On March 23, 2025, a series of renewed Israeli strikes in Gaza have forced thousands of Palestinians to flee their homes. The displacement comes as part of what Israel now calls “voluntary migration,” a policy that many critics argue is effectively forced displacement.
The strikes, which include heavy air attacks and drone strikes, have targeted densely populated areas, particularly in Khan Younis, Rafah, and Tal as-Sultan.
Eyewitnesses and local journalists reported that Palestinians in southern Rafah were seen fleeing along dirt roads while carrying their belongings under continuous tank and drone fire. One local journalist described the scene as “displacement under fire,” with many residents injured or unable to evacuate quickly enough due to surprise incursions by Israeli forces. Additionally, reports indicate that displaced Palestinians were also targeted by drone strikes as they attempted to leave conflict zones.
The report draws on accounts from international news agencies, local eyewitnesses, and statements by Palestinian groups. Sources include live footage and interviews with residents who have been forced to leave their homes, as well as statements from humanitarian organizations working in the region.
These sources highlight that the displacement is part of a broader escalation in violence following the collapse of a ceasefire, with at least 49,747 confirmed deaths and over 113,000 injured in Gaza since the renewed conflict began.
Background details reveal that this forced displacement policy is now officially endorsed by the Israeli government as part of the implementation of a US-backed plan. Critics, including human rights experts, have condemned the move as a war crime, arguing that it is intended to undermine the Palestinian population in Gaza.
