The UNRWA Commissioner General, Philippe Lazzarini, made an urgent appeal on Thursday for the entry of international press into the Gaza Strip, which has been prohibited by Israel since the start of the conflict a year and a half ago. Lazzarini emphasized that this restriction has led to a serious lack of independent information, fueling propaganda, misinformation, and dehumanization.
In a statement on X, Lazzarini highlighted the heroic work of Palestinian journalists who, despite significant risks, are reporting from the region. To date, 170 of them have been killed, illustrating the constant threat they face. The commissioner warned that the genuine accounts and testimonies of reporters are often discredited and questioned. “The free flow of information and the existence of an independent press are fundamental for accountability in any conflict,” he emphasized.
Ajith Sunghay, head of the Office of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights in the occupied Palestinian territories, confirmed that journalists have suffered oppression for years, including killings, censorship, and detentions. From October 7, 2023, to April, 209 Palestinian journalists and media workers were killed in Gaza, of whom at least 27 were women. Additionally, many media facilities have been destroyed during this time.
The conditions for journalists in Gaza and the West Bank have led to numerous cases of detentions, with reports of abuse and threats of sexual violence. Sunghay stressed that the killing of journalists is considered a war crime and their role is vital in informing the world about the reality in these regions.
In the humanitarian field, UN agencies have warned about the severe impact of the Israeli closure that limits the entry of food and supplies into Gaza for seven weeks. This situation has led to the closure of bakeries and caused shortages of medicine and fuel for hospitals. With the resumption of bombings on March 18, an estimated 500,000 people have been displaced again. The Israeli Defense Minister has announced that troops will remain in Gaza indefinitely.
Despite the numerous challenges, UNRWA staff have continued their humanitarian efforts, including the reopening of a health center in Maan and the repair of water wells benefiting thousands of displaced persons. UNICEF has reported that over a million people, including 400,000 children, have seen their access to clean water reduced from 16 liters to just six per person per day. Although waste collection continues, it only meets about 40% of the needs. Since the start of the conflict, the death toll in Gaza has exceeded 51,000.
Source: MiMub in Spanish
