Military forces of Israel label Gaza as a "humanitarian area"
In the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas, the Israeli military has designated a coastal area in southern Gaza, known as the Al-Mawasi region near Khan Yunis, as a "humanitarian zone." This zone, established in December 2023, has significant humanitarian infrastructure, including field hospitals, water pipelines, and desalination plants.
However, concerns have been raised about the living conditions within the Al-Mawasi "humanitarian zone." UN organizations report insufficient sanitation facilities, including latrines and communal toilets, and inadequate waste management. As a result, the majority of the population residing in the zone live in vast tent camps, with an extremely high population density. Estimates suggest that approximately 425,000 people live in an area of about nine square kilometers in June this year.
The Israeli military has been preparing for a corresponding offensive against Gaza City, having intensified air strikes in recent days. The Israeli government plans to militarily occupy Gaza City during its war against Hamas. The exact date for the planned ground offensive has not been officially specified, but preparations and "preparatory measures" began by at least late August 2025. Evacuations and destruction of high-rise buildings were occurring in early September 2025 as preparatory steps.
As of the current situation, less than 100,000 people have left Gaza City due to the impending offensive. The Israeli military spokesperson has urged residents of Gaza City in northern Gaza to move to the Al-Mawasi area as soon as possible. Humanitarian aid is being delivered to the Al-Mawasi "humanitarian zone."
Despite the infrastructure in place, the capacity of field clinics in the Al-Mawasi "humanitarian zone" is inadequate given the large number of people. The capacity issue, coupled with insufficient sanitation facilities and waste management, raises serious concerns about the ability of the zone to accommodate a significant influx of people from Gaza City.
It is crucial to note that the Al-Mawasi "humanitarian zone" was declared during the Israeli military operations against the Islamic Hamas in northern and central Gaza, which began in December 2023. The Israeli military had previously declared the Al-Mawasi area a "humanitarian zone" to provide a safe space for civilians amidst the ongoing conflict.
As the situation in Gaza City continues to evolve, the international community remains vigilant and is closely monitoring the developments to ensure the safety and well-being of civilians.
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