UN Warns of Catastrophic Conditions in Gaza
The United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has described the situation in the Gaza Strip as "horrific and catastrophic," with conditions that may amount to "the most serious international crimes." Speaking at a ministerial conference in Cairo, Egypt, Guterres highlighted the dire humanitarian crisis faced by Palestinians, stating that malnutrition is rampant and famine is imminent. He noted that the health system in Gaza has collapsed, leading to a significant increase in child amputees, with the enclave now having the highest per capita number of such cases in the world. "Many children are losing limbs and undergoing surgery without even anesthesia," he lamented.
Guterres emphasized the urgent need for the international community to take action, calling for a strong political and legal framework to facilitate the delivery of aid to Gaza. He criticized the severe restrictions on aid, asserting that the blockade is not merely a logistical issue but a crisis of political will and respect for international humanitarian law. The UN Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA) has reported that attempts to deliver aid to northern Gaza have been blocked or obstructed, with only 65 aid trucks entering the region in the past month, compared to an average of 500 before the war began in October 2023.
Appeals for Increased Humanitarian Aid
In response to the ongoing crisis, the government media office in Gaza has called on UNRWA to reverse its decision to suspend aid entry through the Kerem Shalom crossing, citing a starvation policy employed by Israel as a weapon of war against civilians. The office accused Israel of coordinating with armed gangs that steal aid, preventing it from reaching those in need. UNRWA Commissioner-General Philippe Lazzarini reiterated the agency's critical role in the humanitarian response, stating that without a robust international framework, humanitarian workers cannot effectively deliver aid.
As the humanitarian situation continues to deteriorate, Guterres's remarks serve as a stark reminder of the urgent need for international action to address the crisis in Gaza and to build foundations for sustainable peace in the region.
