The Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights has expressed growing concern over Israel’s military operations in northern Gaza. They warn that the continuous attacks, forced displacement of the population, and strict limitations on humanitarian aid could result in total devastation of the Palestinian population in the region.
The situation in northern Gaza has been described as “impossible” for trapped civilians, who face repeated evacuation orders and extremely restricted access to essential supplies. This has left many on the brink of starvation and desperation. Despite Israeli army orders for civilians to evacuate the region, airstrikes have persisted, increasing the risk for those attempting to flee. Additionally, there is widespread fear among the population that if they manage to escape, they may not have the chance to return to their homes. Israeli forces have destroyed homes and schools serving as shelters, leaving many families homeless in harsh winter conditions.
The UN Office has reminded Israel of the provisional measures issued by the International Court of Justice in January 2024, urging preventive action against potential genocide. UN Secretary-General António Guterres has condemned the indiscriminate loss of lives in Gaza and denounced a recent attack in Beit Lahiya that resulted in the deaths of 87 people, according to the Gaza Health Ministry. Guterres has called for the respect and protection of civilians at all times and requested unrestricted access for humanitarian aid and rescue teams.
UN Deputy Spokesperson Farhan Haq has highlighted the severity of attacks on hospitals, exacerbating the already critical humanitarian crisis and endangering tens of thousands of people. Hospitals face severe shortages of fuel and medical supplies, and rescue teams have been regularly blocked or attacked while attempting to carry out their duties. Philippe Lazzarini, head of UNRWA, has condemned hospitals being targeted, leaving the wounded without vital medical care due to electricity being cut off.
The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs has issued an urgent appeal to Israeli authorities to allow immediate access to areas where people are still trapped under rubble, warning that any delay could be fatal. The situation is further complicated by the disruption of internet access and the deaths of at least three Palestinian journalists, restricting the flow of information from the affected area.
The UN Special Coordinator for the Middle East Peace Process has also lamented the ongoing aggressions in Gaza in his recent statements. He has emphasized the urgent need to end the war, release hostages, and halt forced displacements. He has urged ensuring the protection of civilians and facilitating unimpeded humanitarian aid. The international community faces a critical challenge that requires courage and dialogue to alleviate the suffering of families trapped in this crisis.
Source: MiMub in Spanish
