According to Gaza’s Ministry of Health, since the offensive began earlier this month, hundreds of people have died, with more than 60,000 others displaced again, many fearing they may never return. again.
People are believed to be trapped under rubble, while the sick and injured are denied access to life-saving care. They also face severe shortages of food and shelter, amid reports of family separation and mass detention.
“The plight of Palestinian civilians trapped in Northern Gaza is unbearable,” read one declare from the Spokesperson of the UN Secretary-General.
Mr. Guterres warned that “widespread destruction and deprivation” caused by Israeli military operations – especially around Jabalya, Beit Lahiya and Beit Hanoun – have made life “untenable” for Palestinians there.
Despite ongoing efforts to deliver essential humanitarian supplies, including food, medicine and shelter, access is still denied by Israeli authorities, with a few exceptions. , putting countless lives in danger.
Adding to the crisis, the postponement of the final phase of the polio vaccination campaign in northern Gaza has endangered thousands of children.
Little attention to international law
“This conflict continues to be waged with little regard for the requirements of international humanitarian law“, the statement noted.
Mr. Guterres emphasized that parties to the conflict must respect and protect civilians, including humanitarian workers and first responders, whose essential work must be facilitated. benefit and protection, free from obstruction and danger.
“In the name of humanity, the Secretary-General reiterates his call for an immediate ceasefire, the immediate and unconditional release of all hostages and accountability for crimes in accordance with international law.”, the statement concluded.
Dire situation
On Saturday, other top U.N. officials sounded urgent calls demand a cessation of Israeli military activities in northern Gaza.
Joyce Msuya, acting deputy minister in charge of humanitarian affairs, warned that entire population of northern Gaza “at risk of death”, called for an immediate end to the “flagrant disregard for basic humanity” by Israeli forces.
Meanwhile, WHO Director General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus described The situation became “catastrophic”highlighted the collapse of Gaza’s healthcare system amid ongoing attacks on hospitals and medical staff, and called for an immediate ceasefire to save lives.
