Guterres Sounds Alarm Over Unprecedented Destruction and Looming Famine in Gaza
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has sounded an alarm regarding the rising civilian casualties in Gaza, characterizing the situation as "unprecedented in recent times."
During a press briefing in New York on Thursday, he underscored the systematic dismantling of Gaza’s essential systems for food, water, and healthcare, which has consequently left the population facing severe hunger and deprivation.
United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres has voiced his apprehension regarding Israel’s military operations in Gaza City, emphasizing that the actions mark a considerable intensification of the ongoing conflict.
The United Nations Secretary-General emphasized that the ongoing situation, which has already left hundreds of thousands of civilians exhausted and traumatized, would compel them to flee once more, further endangering countless families. He asserted that this escalation must come to an end.
He described the continuing violence as part of “an endless catalogue of horrors,” demanding accountability from those responsible.
“Gaza is engulfed in debris, casualties, and possible breaches of international law,” he warned, noting that famine has transitioned from being a looming threat to a current crisis.
The United Nations leader highlighted that the humanitarian crisis stems from intentional actions that disregard fundamental human rights.
He called upon Israel, in its role as the occupying authority, to meet its obligations by guaranteeing the delivery of crucial supplies, including food, water, and medicine.
United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres has urged for improved humanitarian access to the Gaza Strip and emphasized the necessity of safeguarding civilians and critical infrastructure in the region.
Concerns have been raised regarding Israel’s intention to escalate military activities in Gaza City, a move that could result in the displacement of additional civilians.
He issued a renewed call for an immediate, lasting ceasefire, unrestricted humanitarian access throughout Gaza, and the unconditional release of all hostages.
In a resolute statement, Guterres emphasized that the starvation of civilians as a tactic of warfare is unacceptable. He urged for the protection of civilians and called for unhindered humanitarian access, declaring that there should be no further excuses, obstacles, or falsehoods.
Since October 2023, the situation in Gaza has resulted in the deaths of nearly 62,900 Palestinians, the majority of whom are women and children, amid ongoing conflict and violence.
In Gaza City, over 500,000 individuals are currently experiencing severe food shortages, verging on famine conditions.
