In response to NSC Spokesperson Kirby's comments and the US response to the Gaza evacuation order, Oxfam America President & CEO Abby Maxman said,
“NSC Spokesperson Kirby's comments reveal a stunning disregard for the carnage we are witnessing in Gaza. Civilians are being instructed to evacuate under bombardment with no plan to receive them or provide them food, water, shelter, or essential services. Our colleagues are sending terrifying messages, unsure if they will survive until the morning. Israel is entitled to defend itself and its people from the heinous attacks it suffered, but it also has to fulfill the most basic of its obligations toward Palestinians in Gaza.
“Kirby says Israel's evacuation order helps Palestinians get out of harm's way and gives them fair warning of an imminent attack. In reality, it's plunged them into deeper despair, confusion, and suffering. The only fair warning they have received is how little the US government understands or cares to stop the calamity unfolding in Gaza. The US government needs to use all of its influence to ensure that the evacuation order is rescinded and the rights of Israelis and Palestinians are upheld.”