Image Source: AP News
World – “International humanitarian law is unambiguous: civilians must be respected and protected, and the needs of the population must be met”, said the United Nations, as it raised alarm over the worsening situation in Gaza.
Secretary-General António Guterres has condemned the rising civilian death toll following a series of attacks, by the Israeli military, on areas where displaced Palestinians had taken shelter or were trying to access food. His spokesperson, Stéphane Dujarric, said the Secretary-General is appalled by the scale of suffering and the disregard for human life.
“In just one day this week, orders to relocate forced nearly 30,000 people to flee, yet again, with no safe place to go and clearly inadequate supplies of shelter, food, medicine or water,” Dujarric said.
The ongoing fuel blockade has made matters even more critical. For over 17 weeks, no fuel has been allowed into Gaza.
Hospitals are running out of power, ambulances can no longer reach the injured, and access to clean water has become nearly impossible. Humanitarian operations, already stretched thin, face complete shutdown.
“He once again calls for full, safe and sustained humanitarian access so aid can reach people who have been deprived of the basics of life for far too long,” Dujarric added.
The United Nations has stressed that it has both the capacity and a clear plan to deliver life-saving support. But without safe and unhindered access, that aid remains out of reach, especially as the IDF is killing humanitarian workers themselves.
Guterres has also reiterated the need for all parties to respect international law. He renewed his call for an immediate and lasting ceasefire, and for the unconditional release of all hostages.
With conditions in Gaza deteriorating rapidly, the UN has warned that without urgent action, the final lifelines for survival may be lost.
