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

WorldPolitics
14 Jul 2025 • 5:59 PM MYT
The Independent
The Independent

The world’s most free-thinking newspaper

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  • 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.

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