Ex-Israeli General Advocates Siege of Northern Gaza Amid Legal Controversy
- Major General Giora Eiland proposed a 10-day evacuation notice for civilians in northern Gaza, suggesting those who remain be treated as combatants.
- The UN Relief and Works Agency raised concerns about the legality of forcibly displacing civilians, noting the overcrowded conditions in southern Gaza.
- The Israeli military has denied any plans for a siege, emphasizing their efforts to protect civilians while targeting terrorist cells.
In October 2024, Major General Giora Eiland, a former head of the Israeli national security council, advocated for a siege on northern Gaza during an interview on Sky News. He suggested that the approximately 400,000 residents should be given a 10-day notice to evacuate, with those remaining classified as combatants. Eiland argued that a siege could compel militants to surrender without causing mass civilian casualties, contrasting it with traditional military tactics that could endanger many civilians. However, Sam Rose from the UN Relief and Works Agency highlighted the dire situation for civilians, many of whom are vulnerable or unable to leave due to overcrowding in southern Gaza. He emphasized that forcibly displacing these individuals would violate international law. The Israeli military has denied any plans for a siege, asserting their commitment to protecting civilians while targeting terrorist cells in the region. This ongoing conflict raises significant humanitarian concerns, as the area is described as overcrowded and dangerous, complicating military operations and civilian safety.