Gaza City, Gaza Strip — The United Nations has issued a stark warning regarding the dire conditions faced by Palestinians in northern Gaza, which have been described as "untenable" due to the relentless military operations carried out by Israel. The UN spokesperson, Stephane Dujarric, conveyed the urgent message from Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, highlighting the "devastation and deprivation" resulting from the conflict. Israeli forces have been conducting airstrikes in northern Gaza for several weeks, acting on intelligence that suggests Hamas is re-establishing its presence in the region. Dujarric stated on Sunday that the circumstances for Palestinian civilians trapped in the area are "unbearable."
He detailed the alarming situation, noting that many civilians are buried under rubble, the sick and injured are without critical healthcare, and families are left without food and shelter. Reports indicate that Israeli authorities have largely blocked humanitarian aid from reaching those in need, with only a handful of exceptions. This blockade has exacerbated the already critical situation, putting countless lives at risk. A recent report from the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs revealed that in the first three weeks of October, only four out of 70 planned aid movements into Gaza were approved by Israeli authorities.
Additionally, a UN-led initiative aimed at vaccinating children in Gaza against polio has been postponed in the northern region, which could jeopardize the health of thousands of vulnerable children. "This conflict continues to be waged with little regard for the requirements of international humanitarian law," Dujarric emphasized, calling for urgent action to protect civilian lives and facilitate humanitarian access. The ongoing hostilities in Gaza have drawn international concern, as civilians face increasing hardships amid the escalating violence. The UN reiterates the need for immediate measures to alleviate the suffering of those caught in the conflict and to ensure that humanitarian efforts can proceed without obstruction.