UN official raises alarm over desperate situation in Gaza
Martin Griffiths, the United Nations (UN) Deputy Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs and Emergency Aid Coordinator, has drawn attention to the dire conditions faced by the people of Gaza.
Griffiths expressed grave concern, noting that over half a million people in Gaza are on the brink of starvation, with children dying as a result. He highlighted the challenges in aid distribution, revealing that only half of the 224 aid missions in February were permitted by Israeli authorities due to increasing lawlessness.
Furthermore, Griffiths underscored the alarming trend of dropping aid from the air, which has resulted in the deaths of 160 UN personnel and ongoing hostage situations. He emphasized the urgent need for a ceasefire and adherence to the rules of war.
Enumerating six main problems observed in the sixth month of attacks, Griffiths stressed the necessity for additional entry points, supply routes, and warehouse facilities in Gaza. He called for better protection of aid convoys and advocated for free and safe passage through checkpoints, along with a greater role for the commercial sector.
Griffiths concluded by asserting that while the UN knows what actions are required to save lives, the right conditions and assurances must be met. He reiterated his call for a ceasefire and urged compliance with humanitarian principles amidst the escalating crisis in Gaza. (ILKHA)