Get all your news in one place.
100’s of premium titles.
One app.
Start reading
The Independent UK
The Independent UK
National
Steffie Banatvala

‘Humanitarian city’ in Gaza actually ethnic cleansing, former Israeli PM says

  • Ehud Olmert, a former Israeli prime minister, has described plans for a "humanitarian city" in Gaza as akin to a concentration camp, warning that forcing Palestinians into it would amount to ethnic cleansing.
  • Mr Olmert stated that the proposal, briefed by Israel's defence minister, would trap two million displaced Palestinians, with no permission to leave, and is intended for deportation rather than protection.
  • He now believes Israel is committing war crimes in Gaza and the West Bank, attributing these actions to negligence and a disregard for civilian casualties.
  • The "humanitarian city" concept was reportedly discussed between Benjamin Netanyahu and Donald Trump, with concerns it could hinder ongoing ceasefire negotiations.
  • Mr Olmert, who initially supported Israel's military actions after 7 October, is now advocating for a two-state solution and criticises extremist elements within the Israeli government.

IN FULL

Sign up to read this article
Read news from 100’s of titles, curated specifically for you.
Already a member? Sign in here
Related Stories
Top stories on inkl right now
One subscription that gives you access to news from hundreds of sites
Already a member? Sign in here
Our Picks
Fourteen days free
Download the app
One app. One membership.
100+ trusted global sources.