UN Secretary General calls for ceasefire and humanitarian aid access in Gaza

In a recent United Nations briefing, Secretary-General António Guterres addressed the dire humanitarian situation in Gaza, emphasizing the urgent need for independent investigations into violence against Palestinians. He condemned the ongoing risks faced by civilians, particularly those seeking food, and reiterated Israel's obligation under international humanitarian law to facilitate unhindered access to aid.

Guterres called for an immediate and sustained ceasefire, highlighting that there is no military solution to the ongoing conflict. He reported alarming statistics from the ground, noting that in just two days, numerous individuals were killed or injured while attempting to receive supplies. The situation has been exacerbated by attacks on health facilities, with over 40% of dialysis patients in Gaza reportedly having died since hostilities escalated in October 2023.

The briefing revealed that more than 640,000 people, nearly a third of Gaza's population, have been displaced due to ongoing violence. Recent displacement orders have affected around 100,000 individuals, disrupting education for thousands of students as schools and temporary learning spaces have had to close.

Despite severe challenges, humanitarian partners managed to distribute nutritional supplements to approximately 40,000 children last week. However, the situation remains critical, with reports of looting and water shortages compounding the suffering of civilians. Efforts to repair essential water pipelines have been denied, and attempts to distribute portable water in displacement camps have also faced obstacles.

Guterres underscored the need for the full lifting of restrictions on humanitarian aid to meet the urgent needs of civilians. He noted that while some supplies have been brought into Gaza, the volume remains insufficient compared to the overwhelming demand.

In addition to the discussions on Gaza, the briefing touched on regional stability, with the UN's special coordinator for Lebanon engaging with Israeli officials to consolidate progress made since the cessation of hostilities in November 2024. The Secretary-General also condemned recent acts of antisemitism in the United States and France, reaffirming the UN's commitment to combat all forms of extremism and violence.

The meeting highlighted the pressing humanitarian crisis in Gaza and the broader implications for regional stability, calling for immediate action to address the needs of affected populations and uphold international humanitarian principles.