The United Nations Secretary-General, António Guterres, described the situation in war-torn Gaza as “appalling and apocalyptic” during a Cairo conference on Monday. He warned that the conditions faced by Palestinians in Gaza might constitute some of the “gravest international crimes.”
Guterres urged global leaders to increase humanitarian aid and work toward lasting peace in Gaza and the Middle East. The conflict escalated on October 7, 2023, when Hamas launched an attack on southern Israel, killing 1,208 people, mostly civilians, based on Israeli official figures. Israel’s military response has resulted in 44,429 deaths in Gaza, according to health ministry data deemed reliable by the UN.
The UN chief highlighted the dire situation, stating, “Malnutrition is rampant, famine is imminent, and the health system has collapsed.” He added that Gaza now has “the highest number of children amputees per capita globally,” with many undergoing surgeries without anesthesia.
Guterres also criticized severe aid restrictions, calling the current delivery levels “grossly insufficient.” Before the war, Gaza received around 500 aid trucks daily, but now only 65 trucks are allowed in per day, according to UNRWA.
Humanitarian organizations have warned that Gaza civilians are on the brink of famine as aid supplies reach an all-time low. Israel has cited challenges in aid distribution as a reason for delays, blaming relief organizations for logistical issues. Guterres countered this claim, stating, “This is not a crisis of logistics but of political will and respect for international humanitarian law.”
UNRWA reported that all its attempts to deliver aid to northern Gaza between October 6, 2024, and November 25 were either blocked or delayed due to heavy fighting. Guterres emphasized the critical role of UNRWA, calling it an “irreplaceable lifeline for millions of Palestinians.” He warned that if UNRWA services cease, Israel would bear the responsibility of providing those essential services.
The worsening crisis demands urgent international attention to prevent further suffering and to establish a foundation for sustainable peace.
