Al Mezan Center for Human Rights strongly condemns the death of Shadi Atiya Abu Qouta, 48, caused by a demolition operation carried out by Khan Younis municipality to open a road in the Jouret al-Aqqad area. This tragic incident represents a violation of national and international legal norms, including the right to life.

According to Al Mezan’s documentation, at approximately 10 a.m. on Thursday, 27 July 2023, personnel from Khan Younis municipality, accompanied by a bulldozer and two municipal police officers, arrived at Shadi Abu Qouta’s residence in the Jouret Al-Aqqad area of Khan Younis Refugee Camp. They were there to execute a removal order of the house’s exterior wall, which faced a side street built two years ago as part of a road widening project in the Khan Younis Refugee Camp.

During the demolition process, the 8-meter-long and 2.5-meter-high wall collapsed entirely on Abu Qoura. Following the incident, the municipal team immediately withdrew from the area and Abu Qouta was rushed to Nasser Hospital in Khan Younis. He was admitted to the intensive care unit but tragically passed away 30 minutes later, with medical reports indicating bleeding in his brain, stomach, and chest as the cause of death. Al Mezan expresses its deep sorrow for the death of Abu Qouta and extends heartfelt condolences to his family.

The General Administration of Municipalities must strictly adhere to legal procedures and exercise utmost caution and responsibility when law enforcement agencies exercise their functions, particularly in cases involving the removal of liens or requisition or demolition of private property for public purposes. This is critical to protect people’s rights to life, bodily integrity, and housing and to prevent forced evictions. To avoid similar incidents in the future, the General Administration must provide clear instructions to its staff.

Al Mezan also stresses the need for planning processes and building schemes to take into account Gaza's limited space and the economic conditions of its residents. Municipalities should avoid demolishing buildings or walls—especially in refugee camps—and adjust planning schemes accordingly. When demolitions cannot be avoided, local authorities must provide appropriate compensation and alternatives to affected individuals.

Al Mezan stands in strong solidarity with the Abu Qouta family and calls for a thorough review of all procedures employed by municipalities when evacuating residences or removing encroachments. Local authorities should establish an inquiry committee to investigate the death of Abu Qouta, thoroughly examining the circumstances of the incident, publicly disclosing the findings of the investigation, and holding those responsible accountable.