Martin Griffiths, the UN Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs and Emergency Relief Coordinator, expressed grave concern over the dire situation in Gaza. He stated, “Gaza has become a place of death and despair.”
The toll on civilians, especially women and children, has been devastating, with tens of thousands killed or injured. Griffiths noted that areas designated as safe for civilians have also come under bombardment. The few remaining hospitals are under relentless attack, overwhelmed with trauma cases, and critically short on supplies.
“A public health disaster is unfolding,” warned Griffiths, citing the spread of infectious diseases in overcrowded shelters. The dire circumstances have led to approximately 180 Palestinian women giving birth daily amidst the chaos.
Gazans are grappling with unprecedented levels of food insecurity, raising concerns of an imminent famine. Griffiths emphasized the urgent need for an “immediate end” to the warfare, declaring that “Gaza has simply become uninhabitable.”
The conflict began on October 7 when the Israeli regime launched a military campaign in response to Hamas’ Operation Al-Aqsa Storm. The toll has been staggering, with more than 22,600 casualties, predominantly children and women, and at least 57,910 Palestinians wounded.
Griffiths highlighted the severe impact on children who have been deprived of essential needs like food, water, and education.
The Israeli regime has floated plans for the forced displacement of Palestinians from Gaza to other countries.
