The United Nations has once again called for an immediate humanitarian ceasefire in Gaza amidst the ongoing conflict with Israel. The UN Geneva issued a statement from the Principals of the Inter-Agency Standing Committee, emphasizing that the continued siege, attacks, and denial of access to basic amenities for the entire population is deemed unacceptable.
The statement highlighted that the October 7 attack on Israel does not justify the loss of civilian lives in Gaza or the isolation of 2.2 million Palestinians from essential resources. The UN urged for increased aid, including food, water, medicines, and fuel, to enter Gaza, emphasizing the urgent need for a humanitarian ceasefire.
The UN expressed deep concern over the escalating casualties and damage to infrastructure in both Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territory. It emphasized the need for all parties to uphold their obligations under international humanitarian and human rights law, as well as the immediate and unconditional release of all civilians held hostage.
The global agency also stressed the importance of protecting civilians and the critical infrastructure they rely on, including hospitals, shelters, and schools. Additionally, it called for the swift and safe delivery of aid, particularly to vulnerable populations like women and children.
Meanwhile, the death toll in Gaza has reportedly exceeded 10,000 since the hostilities began on October 7. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres voiced concerns over clear violations of international humanitarian law in the Middle East, emphasizing the paramount importance of protecting civilians.
It’s worth noting that Israel initiated military action against Hamas following a brutal attack on October 7, resulting in casualties and kidnappings. In response, Israel launched an air and ground offensive in Gaza with the aim of neutralizing the militant group. The Rafah border crossing, which had been closed temporarily, was reopened to facilitate the passage of foreign nationals and wounded Palestinians from Gaza into Egypt. Additionally, humanitarian aid has been entering Gaza through the crossing, albeit with restrictions on fuel supplies.
