More than 800,000 Palestinians have been forced to flee Rafah in the past two weeks due to ongoing Israeli military operations, according to Philippe Lazzarini, Commissioner-General of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA).

In a statement posted on his X account (formerly known as Twitter), Lazzarini highlighted the severe impact of the Israeli attacks on the population of Rafah. "Once again, nearly half of the population of Rafah, or 800,000 people, are on the road, having been forced to flee since the Israeli Forces started the military operation in the area on 6 May," he said.

Lazzarini emphasized the recurring displacement faced by Palestinians in Gaza, who have repeatedly had to abandon their homes in search of safety. He pointed out that even UNRWA shelters have not provided the security that the displaced individuals seek. "Every time, they are forced to leave behind the few belongings they have: mattresses, tents, cooking utensils, and basic supplies that they cannot carry or pay to transport. Every time, they have to start from scratch, all over again," he stated.

Calling for an immediate ceasefire, Lazzarini criticized claims that there are "safe" or "humanitarian" zones within Gaza. "The claim that people in Gaza can move to 'safe' or 'humanitarian' zones is false. Each time, it puts the lives of civilians at serious risk. Gaza does not have any safe zones. No place is safe. No one is safe," he asserted.

The ongoing violence has exacerbated the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, with displaced families facing dire conditions and limited access to basic necessities. UNRWA continues to call for international intervention to protect civilians and ensure their safety amid the escalating conflict. (ILKHA)