UN Secretary-General António Guterres has described Gaza as a “killing field” due to Israel’s blockade, which has led to an aid shortage and a surge in civilian casualties. The 6th UN agencies have urged world leaders to act urgently to ensure food and medical supplies reach Palestinians.
Gaza has been under blockage since March 2, after the first stage of a ceasefire expired. Israel resumed its aerial bombardment and ground offensive on March 18, killing 1,449 Palestinians, according to the Hamas-run health ministry. The Israeli military denies targeting civilians.
The UN agencies’ joint statement calls for world leaders to make sure food and aid supplies reach Palestinians in Gaza, as Gazans are “trapped, bombed and starved again.” However, Israel claims there is no shortage of humanitarian aid in the Gaza Strip.
A recent surge in humanitarian aid has let into Gaza, including the release of 33 hostages by Hamas. The UN agencies’ statement also warns that Gaza’s health system is overwhelmed with essential medical supplies running out.
The situation remains dire, with at least 58 people killed in Gaza over the past 24 hours. The Israeli military says it does not target civilians, but the strikes have led to a surge in civilian casualties.
Guterres’ comments come as the war between Israel and Hamas continues, with more than 50,810 Palestinians killed since October 2023. The situation remains a humanitarian crisis, and the world must act urgently to ensure aid reaches those in need.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c87p15q8d74o