SG/SM/22426
The following statement was released today by the Spokesperson for Mr. António Guterres, Secretary-General of the United Nations:
The plight of Palestinian civilians trapped in northern Gaza is unbearable. In the past few weeks alone, hundreds of people have been killed, according to the Gaza Ministry of Health, and more than 60,000 others have been forced to flee, once again; some fearing they will not be able to return.
The Secretary-General is shocked by the horrific number of deaths, injuries and damage in the north where civilians are trapped under rubble and the sick and wounded live without health care and their families without food and shelter. that there are reports of the separation of families and the detention of many people.
Repeated efforts to distribute essential humanitarian supplies, namely food, medicine and shelter, are still prevented by Israeli authorities with few exceptions, putting countless lives at risk. The postponement of the final phase of the polio vaccination campaign in northern Gaza threatens the lives of thousands of children.
The Secretary-General warns that the widespread devastation and deprivation resulting from Israeli military operations in northern Gaza, particularly around Jabalya, Beit Lahiya and Beit Hanoun, are making the living conditions of the Palestinian population untenable. This conflict continues with very little regard for the provisions of international humanitarian law.
The Secretary-General emphasizes that parties to conflict must respect and protect civilians, including humanitarian workers and relief workers, whose vital work must be facilitated and protected and in no way prevented or compromised.
On behalf of humanity, the Secretary-General reiterates his call for an immediate ceasefire, the immediate and unconditional release of all hostages and the establishment of accountability for crimes under international law.
For news outlets. Unofficial document.
