[17/07/2024 07:25]

NEW YORK-SABA
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres warned Wednesday that the humanitarian support system in Gaza is "on the verge of total collapse" as the Israeli occupation intensifies its aggression and chaos spreads throughout the Strip.
"The humanitarian situation in Gaza is a moral shame upon us all," he said.

Guterres, in a speech delivered on his behalf by his chief of staff Courtenay Rattray at a meeting of the UN Security Council on the situation in the Middle East, emphasized that "thanks to the strenuous efforts of the State of Qatar, Egypt and the United States, negotiations continue to draft an agreement for the release of hostages and a ceasefire," he said, stressing the need for all parties to reach an agreement now.

He pointed out that nearly half a million people are facing catastrophic levels of acute food insecurity, and infectious diseases are on the rise, explaining that the large-scale entry and delivery of humanitarian aid throughout Gaza is essential for the survival and well-being of civilians, and it is long overdue to provide a safe and enabling environment for effective humanitarian operations in Gaza, in accordance with international humanitarian law.

The UN Secretary-General stressed the need to change course through the immediate cessation of all Israeli settlement activities, and holding the perpetrators of acts of violence accountable, considering the Israeli settlements a flagrant violation of international law and a major obstacle to peace.

He affirmed the need for the occupying authorities to ensure the safety and security of the Palestinian population.

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