UN Calls For Immediate, Unimpeded Humanitarian Aid Access To Gaza

WAM/APP

New York: United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres has condemned the loss of life and injuries suffered by Palestinians in Gaza who are seeking food and humanitarian assistance, describing the situation as “utterly unacceptable”.

In remarks conveyed today by his spokesperson, the Secretary-General highlighted the dire risks faced by civilians in Gaza, many of whom are losing their lives simply while attempting to obtain food.

He reaffirmed the basic right of Palestinians to adequate food and freedom from hunger, calling for an immediate, independent investigation into the incidents and for those responsible to be held accountable.

Guterres stressed that the essential needs of Gaza’s population remain vast and unmet, and reminded that Israel has clear obligations under international humanitarian law to allow and facilitate humanitarian relief for all civilians in need.

He reiterated the urgent necessity of the immediate and unimpeded re-entry of large-scale humanitarian aid into Gaza and emphasised that the United Nations must be allowed to operate safely and securely in accordance with humanitarian principles.

The Secretary-General concluded by renewing his calls for the release of all hostages and for an immediate, lasting and sustainable ceasefire.