UN urges humanitarian access amid escalating violence in Gaza and South Sudan

In a recent United Nations briefing, urgent humanitarian crises in South Sudan and the occupied Palestinian territories were highlighted, reflecting the dire conditions faced by civilians in these regions.

In South Sudan, ongoing violence has led to the displacement of over 30,000 people in just two months, particularly affecting Nasir, Oolang, and Fongak Counties. The UN reported that hospitals have been forced to relocate patients, and aid teams have withdrawn staff due to escalating attacks, including aerial bombardments. The humanitarian situation is critical, with the UN airlifting essential medical supplies to replenish dwindling stocks. Local sources indicate that the full extent of the humanitarian impact is still being assessed, as the conflict continues to disrupt livelihoods and essential services.

The UN's humanitarian needs and response plan for South Sudan calls for $1.7 billion to assist 5.4 million people, over half of whom are children. However, the appeal is severely underfunded, with only 16% of the required amount received so far.

In the occupied Palestinian territories, the humanitarian situation is equally alarming. The UN humanitarian country team reported that Israeli authorities have blocked all supplies from entering Gaza for nine weeks, exacerbating the crisis. Essential services, including bakeries and community kitchens, have shut down, leaving many, especially children, without food. The UN emphasized that the proposed plan by Israel would leave vulnerable populations without necessary supplies, contravening fundamental humanitarian principles.

The Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) warned of ongoing airstrikes and attacks in Gaza, resulting in numerous civilian casualties. Reports of looting and robbery have become commonplace, further complicating the delivery of aid. Water and sanitation services have also been severely impacted, with a major water line damaged, cutting supply to Northern Gaza by half.

In Lebanon, the UN Interim Force (UNIFIL) continues to engage with local communities to strengthen ties and support humanitarian efforts. Recent discoveries of unguarded weapons caches highlight ongoing security challenges in the region.

Meanwhile, in Ukraine, large-scale attacks on cities like Kharkiv and Kyiv have resulted in civilian casualties and damage to infrastructure. Humanitarian organizations are mobilizing to provide essential support, including medical care and emergency shelter for those displaced by the conflict.

The briefing concluded with the appointment of Maria Angela Holguin Cuellar as the Secretary-General's personal envoy on Cyprus, signaling a renewed commitment to addressing the longstanding issues on the island.

As these crises unfold, the UN continues to call for safe access for humanitarian teams and supplies to reach those in need, emphasizing the urgent need for international support and adherence to humanitarian principles.