The United Nations Coordinator for the Middle East Peace Process, Tor Wensland, has urgently called for a ceasefire agreement in Gaza amidst escalating violence in the region. During a recent UN Security Council session, Wensland highlighted the dire humanitarian situation in Gaza, which is expected to take decades to recover from the ongoing conflict. He also expressed concerns over settler violence in the West Bank, warning that the area is on the brink of significant unrest.
Wensland emphasized the immediate need for a ceasefire, stating, "There must be a ceasefire in the Gaza Strip now, and the hostages must be released." He acknowledged the diplomatic efforts of Qatar, Egypt, and the United States in seeking a resolution to the crisis. The UN official condemned the Israeli military's actions, particularly air strikes on schools and mosques that have left many displaced.
The impact of evacuation orders in Gaza has affected over 200,000 Palestinians, leading to widespread destruction. Wensland described the situation in Gaza as catastrophic, with recovery projected to take years. He further addressed the alarming rise in settler attacks in the West Bank, particularly in the village of Jeit, where recent violence resulted in casualties and property destruction. Wensland called for the strengthening of the Palestinian government to ensure effective governance in both Gaza and the West Bank.
