UN officials warn of humanitarian catastrophe as Israel targets Palestinian refugee agency in Gaza

The officials highlighted the essential services provided by the agency and urged the Council to intervene.

Philippe Lazzarini, UNRWA’s Commissioner-General, described the worsening situation in Gaza, which he said is "unrecognizable" due to the conflict. Emphasizing the impact on Palestinian children, Lazzarini warned of the dangers of losing an entire generation due to lack of access to education. He also reported the agency’s ongoing emergency vaccination campaigns and the importance of maintaining essential services.

Lisa Doughten, Director of the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs, further warned that Israeli legislation aimed at terminating UNRWA operations would devastate the provision of aid to millions of Palestinians. The humanitarian situation in Gaza has rapidly deteriorated, with UN officials reporting widespread suffering, including an alarming increase in child amputations and a higher risk of maternal deaths.

Several UN member states, including Japan and Russia, voiced their concerns during the Security Council session, stressing the need to protect UNRWA and continue its critical work. Some diplomats called on the Council to enforce international law and stop attacks on humanitarian operations. Algeria’s representative underscored the urgency, warning that continued inaction could lead to an unprecedented war in the region.

As the session concluded, the Palestinian representative called on the international community to stop Israel’s attacks on civilians and aid workers in Gaza. He urged the Security Council to act swiftly to prevent further loss of life and the escalation of conflict in the region. (ILKHA)