UN Sounds Alarm: Gaza a "Killing Field" Amidst Israeli Blockade

The United Nations Secretary-General, António Guterres, has issued a dire warning about the situation in Gaza, describing it as a "killing field" where civilians are trapped in an "endless death loop." This statement comes as Israel continues its blockade of the Gaza Strip, preventing the entry of essential goods and supplies for over five weeks – the longest period since the conflict began.

Key Points:

• UN's Dire Assessment: Guterres stated that "aid has dried up [and] the floodgates of horror have re-opened" in Gaza, emphasizing the intolerable conditions under international law.
• Call for Action: Six UN agencies have jointly appealed to world leaders to urgently ensure that food and supplies reach the Palestinian population in Gaza.
• Israel's Response: Israel's foreign ministry has refuted the claims of aid shortages, accusing Guterres of "spreading slander against Israel" and asserting that sufficient aid has entered Gaza.
• Blockade Details: Israel imposed the blockade on March 2, following the expiration of a ceasefire. Renewed military actions have reportedly resulted in the deaths of 1,449 Palestinians.
• Humanitarian Crisis: The UN agencies highlight that markets are devoid of fresh vegetables, hospitals are rationing essential medicines, and the healthcare system is overwhelmed.

UN Agency Statements:

The joint statement by UN agencies emphasized that while a previous ceasefire allowed for the delivery of life-saving supplies, the current situation is far from adequate. They stated Gazans were "trapped, bombed and starved again". Commodities are running extremely low, exacerbating the humanitarian crisis.

Casualties and Conflict:

Recent Israeli strikes have resulted in numerous casualties, including women and children. The Hamas-run health ministry reported that at least 58 people were killed in the past 24 hours, with strikes hitting residential areas and media tents. The ongoing conflict was triggered by the Hamas attack on Israel on October 7, 2023, resulting in approximately 1,200 deaths and the taking of 251 hostages.

International Law and Obligations:

Guterres stressed that Israel, as the occupying power, has obligations under international law to ensure the provision of food and medical supplies to the population of Gaza.