As the humanitarian crisis in Gaza escalates, the United Nations Security Council convened to address the dire situation resulting from ongoing airstrikes and rocket fire. The meeting highlighted the staggering toll of the conflict, with fatalities in Gaza surpassing those recorded during the entire 2014 war, and a significant number of victims being women and children. The internal displacement crisis has reached alarming levels, with over 1.4 million people forced from their homes, many seeking refuge in overcrowded UN facilities.

The conditions in Gaza are increasingly desperate, with reports indicating that 42% of housing units have been damaged or destroyed since October 7. Hospitals are nearing collapse due to severe shortages of electricity, medical supplies, and personnel, forcing medical staff to operate under life-threatening conditions. The UN emphasized the urgent need for humanitarian aid, noting that recent deliveries of supplies through the Rafa Crossing from Egypt, while a positive development, are insufficient to meet the overwhelming needs of the population.

The UN called for increased humanitarian access, including the restoration of fuel supplies critical for powering essential services. Without fuel, hospitals cannot function, and access to clean water is severely compromised, raising the risk of health crises among the displaced population. The UN urged Israel to facilitate the flow of water, electricity, and fuel back to pre-conflict levels to alleviate the suffering of civilians.

In light of these challenges, the UN expressed admiration for the bravery of humanitarian workers on the ground, many of whom are also displaced. The organization called for immediate funding to support UNRWA and other agencies to continue their vital work in providing assistance to those in need. The meeting underscored the urgent need for collective action to address the humanitarian crisis and protect the lives of civilians caught in the conflict.