During the Security Council briefing, Russell revealed the grim statistics, citing figures from the Palestinian Ministry of Health indicating that over 8,300 Palestinians, including more than 3,400 children, have been killed in Gaza, with over 6,300 children sustaining injuries. The daily toll of 420 children killed or injured is a shocking reality, emphasizing the urgent need for action.

She expanded the scope beyond Gaza, noting that in the West Bank, including East Jerusalem, at least 37 children have reportedly been killed by zionist forces.

Russell emphasized the relentless attacks on civilian infrastructure, particularly the striking number of assaults on health care facilities and schools. She highlighted the substantial damage done to hospitals and the severe shortage of clean water, which now threatens the lives of over 2 million people.

Additionally, she stressed the profound impact of the conflict on children, pointing out the mental health implications and long-term consequences of such violence.

Addressing the challenges faced by humanitarian aid delivery, Russell underscored the difficulty arising from siege conditions in Gaza and the perilous circumstances under which staff are operating, some of whom have experienced personal losses.

Russell made an urgent plea to the Security Council, calling for immediate action to remind involved parties of their international law obligations, insisting on a ceasefire, safe humanitarian access, and the protection of abducted children.

Furthermore, she emphasized the necessity for unimpeded movement of humanitarian supplies and personnel, urging a reversal of measures preventing essential services such as electricity, food, water, and fuel from entering Gaza from Israel.

Catherine Russell concluded her address by calling for a focus on the escalating displacement crisis, urging the rescinding of orders for civilians to leave northern Gaza and the cessation of demands for hospital evacuations. (ILKHA)