In the wake of the ongoing conflict in Gaza, international organizations and UN experts have issued updated key messages, expressing their deep concerns over the escalating humanitarian crisis. The Secretary-General emphasized the paramount importance of protecting civilians on both sides, condemning the killing of innocent people, particularly women and children. He reiterated the urgent need for an immediate humanitarian ceasefire and unimpeded access to deliver essential aid to the people of Gaza.
The UN High Commissioner for Human Rights called for empathy, dialogue, and peace, emphasizing the shared humanity that unites us all. Meanwhile, the Director of the New York Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights voiced a strong condemnation of the violence, describing it as a genocide unfolding before their eyes. He criticized the failure of the international community to prevent mass atrocities and protect vulnerable populations, particularly Palestinians, citing systematic persecution and violence against them.
The UN High Commissioner for Refugees highlighted the devastating impact of the conflict, with innocent civilians, including children, suffering amid the destruction of infrastructure. Urging for a just solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and an immediate humanitarian ceasefire, he emphasized the importance of protecting civilians and providing adequate humanitarian assistance.
The Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) described the horrific conditions in Gaza, where people are desperate for food, water, and shelter amidst relentless bombings. UN warehouses have been broken into by people searching for necessities, raising concerns about disease and health issues due to the breakdown in services. OCHA called for a humanitarian pause in the fighting to allow the safe delivery of aid and relief efforts.
The World Health Organization warned of an imminent public health catastrophe due to mass displacement, overcrowding, and damage to water and sanitation infrastructure. UNICEF expressed grave concerns about the high number of children killed and abducted, emphasizing the long-term trauma that will impact generations if the conflict does not cease immediately.
The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) voiced extreme concern about rising violence in the West Bank, urging efforts to protect populations and their properties. The ICRC emphasized the critical situation, with numerous lives lost, injuries, and tragic displacements. They called for respect for civilian lives and property, ensuring access to essential services and medical care, and adherence to international law standards during law enforcement operations.
As the conflict continues unabated, these international organizations and UN experts urge all parties involved to prioritize the safety and well-being of civilians, adhere to international humanitarian law, and work towards a peaceful resolution to end the suffering in Gaza and the wider region.
