The city of Gaza is facing unprecedented devastation as Israeli military offensives continue to intensify. Amid air and ground bombardments, thousands of Gazans are being forced to leave their homes in search of safety. António Guterres, Secretary-General of the UN, has reiterated the urgency of establishing an immediate ceasefire to halt the “mass death and destruction” that could result from military operations in the region.
According to reports from UN agencies, around one million people continue to live in Gaza, an area regarded as a stronghold of Hamas by the Israeli government. Guterres has also emphasized the need to unconditionally release all hostages to prevent further loss of life.
Outside of Gaza, Israel has approved a plan to expand settlements in occupied West Bank territory, a measure that had previously been suspended. This action, which includes the construction of approximately 3,000 housing units, is considered illegal under international law, and Guterres has condemned the decision, urging Israeli authorities to overturn it.
The Israeli military has announced the start of a new phase of the offensive in Gaza, focusing its efforts on specific areas such as Jabalya and Az Zaytoun. The Office of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights has reported targeted attacks against the civilian population, including bombings of residential buildings and tents housing displaced persons. The situation is critical, as entire neighborhoods have been destroyed and military maneuvers continue to cause chaos.
Moreover, the humanitarian crisis is worsening. Acute malnutrition among children in Gaza has reached alarming levels, with a 28.5% incidence in certain age groups. The Agency for Palestinian Refugees has documented that children continue to die from hunger, a situation exacerbated by the conflict that intensifies day by day.
Despite the chaos, the UN has highlighted its commitment to remain in Gaza to provide vital aid. UNRWA has conducted over 100,000 medical consultations in the past month and has provided drinking water and sanitation services. However, the escalating conflict jeopardizes these humanitarian operations. The international community continues to hope for a respite that will allow for a ceasefire and alleviate the suffering of thousands of families trapped in this crisis.
via: MiMub in Spanish
