The United Nations’ rights chief, Volker Turk, expressed profound concern on Friday regarding Israel's significant escalation of military operations in Gaza. He characterized these actions, alongside what appears to be an initiative to permanently displace the local population, as constituting "ethnic cleansing."

In his statement, Turk emphasized that the recent bombardments and the denial of crucial humanitarian assistance indicate a troubling intent to impose a permanent demographic shift in Gaza, which contravenes international law and equates to ethnic cleansing. 

The context for these developments includes the collapse of a two-month ceasefire between Israel and Hamas in March, coinciding with Israel's reestablishment of a full blockade on Gaza. This blockade has led to a critical shortage of food and heightened concerns of a looming famine, as articulated by aid organizations.