14 October 2024
From Philippe Lazzarini, the UNRWA Commissioner-General as posted on his official X account (previously known as Twitter)
Northern Gaza.
Two long weeks of intense Israeli Forces’ airstrikes and ground operations.
Hundreds of Palestinians are reported killed, among them children.
More than 400,000 people continue to be trapped in the area. The health system has all but collapsed.
We are not able to reach our teams due to telecommunications cuts. The UN has not been allowed to provide any assistance, including food since 30 September. The two crossing points into northern Gaza have been closed since.
Jabalia camp has been hit the most, some 50,000 people were forced to flee. Basic services, including from UNRWA, have been interrupted or forced to a halt including our UNRWA health centre while only two water wells are operational.
Such attacks, the sabotage of civilian infrastructure and the deliberate denial of critical assistance continue to be used as a tactic by the Israeli Authorities to force people to flee.
Civilians are given no choice but to either leave or starve. International Humanitarian Law is clear: people cannot be displaced by force, civilians should be protected at all times + given access to basic necessities should they choose to stay.
In Gaza, too many red lines have been crossed. What might constitute war crimes can still be prevented.
Ceasefire Now.
It is not too late to show courage & humanity.
Document Sources: United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA)
Subject: Access and movement, Armed conflict, Gaza Strip, Human rights and international humanitarian law, Refugee camps, Refugees and displaced persons, War crimes
Publication Date: 14/10/2024
URL source: https://www.unrwa.org/newsroom/official-statements/two-long-weeks-intense-israeli-forces-airstrikes-and-ground-operations