Israel’s proposed “humanitarian city” in Gaza has drawn fierce criticism, with former Prime Minister Ehud Olmert labeling it a “concentration camp.” The plan, pushed by Defense Minister Israel Katz, would relocate the entire population of Gaza to a zone built on the ruins of Rafah.
According to Katz, once Palestinians enter the area, they would not be allowed to leave. He also advocated for facilitating the emigration of Palestinians from Gaza—an idea many see as forced displacement.
Olmert Accuses Government of Ethnic Cleansing, Sparks Political and Moral Firestorm Within Israel
Olmert, in an interview with The Guardian, said the plan amounts to ethnic cleansing, warning that forcing Palestinians into the isolated zone constitutes a humanitarian crime.
Drawing parallels to Nazi-era concentration camps—a rare and taboo comparison in Israel—Olmert stated that such actions are not designed to protect civilians but to expel them. He framed the proposal as part of a broader, systematic campaign to displace Palestinians from their homeland.
The Israeli government swiftly condemned Olmert’s remarks. The Prime Minister’s Office dismissed his statements as disgraceful, pointing to his past criminal conviction and prison time for corruption. Officials claimed the military’s intent is to evacuate civilians for their protection, blaming Hamas for obstructing these efforts.
Nevertheless, the plan has ignited deep political tensions within Israel, with opposition leader Yair Lapid accusing Prime Minister Netanyahu of enabling far-right extremists for the sake of political survival.
Legal Experts Warn of War Crimes Amid Mounting Death Toll and Global Scrutiny
Human rights advocates and legal experts have also weighed in, arguing that the proposed displacement may violate international law. Michael Sfard, an Israeli human rights lawyer, called the plan a “forcible transfer” and warned that it could amount to war crimes or even crimes against humanity. He rejected the idea that Palestinians might be leaving voluntarily, stating that any mass relocation under pressure is inherently coercive.
The plan comes against a backdrop of immense suffering in Gaza, with over 58,000 Palestinians killed since the war began, according to local health authorities. The recent collapse of a ceasefire and ongoing military operations have only intensified scrutiny of Israel’s conduct.
As international pressure grows and criticism mounts—even from within Israel’s own leadership—the debate over the humanitarian city underscores broader questions about the ethical and legal limits of wartime policy in Gaza.
