Peeperkorn emphasized in a press statement that military operations in densely populated areas like Rafah would exacerbate the humanitarian catastrophe beyond imagination. He expressed concern over the limited ability of the WHO to distribute medical aid in Gaza due to the rejection of many supply delivery requests.
The WHO representative highlighted that only 40% of the organization's missions to northern Gaza have been approved since November, a rate that has further decreased since January. Peppercorn criticized the absurdity of approving such a low percentage of missions to southern Gaza, emphasizing the urgent need for humanitarian assistance.
Meanwhile, the Euro-Mediterranean Monitor for Human Rights reported that Israeli military attacks have already commenced against Rafah, warning of genocide through killings, hunger, and deprivation of health services. The monitor stated that approximately 280 people, including 155 children and women, have been killed in Rafah, with 220 housing units destroyed since January 26th.
The Euro-Med monitor highlighted the inadequate humanitarian aid reaching Rafah, stating that it fails to meet the urgent and catastrophic needs of Palestinians. It criticized Israel's escalation of measures to restrict aid entry, leading to severe food insecurity among Gaza residents.
Furthermore, the monitor warned of increasing deaths resulting from hunger, malnutrition, and related diseases. The ongoing Israeli aggression has resulted in the death of 28,576 people and the injury of 68,291 individuals, along with the displacement of approximately 85% of the population, according to regional authorities and international organizations.
Peeperkorn's warning underscores the urgent need for international action to prevent further escalation of the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. The Euro-Med monitor's report highlights the dire situation faced by Palestinians and the necessity for increased humanitarian aid and intervention to alleviate their suffering. (ILKHA)