ActionAid “categorically denounces” the reported forcible transfer of millions from Rafah to so-called “humanitarian islands”

Riham Jafari, Communications and Advocacy Coordinator at ActionAid Palestine, said: 

“We categorically denounce the reported green light from the US for Israel to undertake military action in Rafah and forcibly transfer the million plus people sheltering in Rafah to so-called "humanitarian islands" within Gaza so Israel can continue its violent rampage which is now entering its six month.  

“These people are not simply an inconvenience in this war, this flagrant disregard for international law constitutes a gross violation of the rights of Gazans, who have already endured countless displacement since this crisis began. Palestinians in Gaza must be guaranteed their inalienable right to return to their homes.  

We demand an immediate cessation of this plan and call for all parties to prioritise the protection of civilians and adhere to their obligations under international law. All this ceasefire talk from leading nations is hot air if they allow the Israeli government to facilitate the mass transfer of the now largest refugee camp on earth. This cannot be allowed to happen, and we urge governments to ensure it does not for the good of humanity.” 

Contact the ActionAid press office on uk.media@actionaid.org or on 07753 973 486.