Fletcher: It has become almost impossible to deliver aid to Gaza

In a statement issued following his first visit to the Middle East as UN Emergency Relief Coordinator, Mr. Fletcher said that the Israeli authorities continue to prevent humanitarian workers from meaningfully reaching people in need in the Strip, where more than a hundred requests to access northern Gaza have been rejected since 6 October. October 1st. In addition, the rule of law in Gaza has now clearly collapsed, as armed looting of humanitarian supplies by gangs has become systematic.

Mr. Fletcher noted that the International Court of Justice issued the first set of interim orders in the case applying the prevention and punishment of the crime of genocide in the Gaza Strip nearly a year ago, yet the continuing pace of violence continues. “It means there is no safe place for civilians in Gaza. Schools, hospitals and civilian infrastructure have been reduced to rubble.”

He added that the siege of northern Gaza – which lasted for more than two months – “Raised the specter of famine,” While the south of the Strip is very crowded, “This creates appalling living conditions and greater humanitarian needs as winter sets in.”

He added: “Across Gaza, Israeli air strikes continue on densely populated areas, including areas where Israeli forces have ordered people to move, causing destruction, displacement and death.”.

At the same time, the Under-Secretary-General said that the situation in the West Bank continues to deteriorate, “The death toll is the highest we have ever recorded.”.

He said that Israeli military operations last year resulted in the destruction of infrastructure such as roads and water networks, especially in refugee camps. He added that increasing settler violence and home demolitions have led to increased displacement and needs, and that restrictions on movement are hindering people’s livelihoods and their access to basic services – especially health care.

However, Mr. Fletcher stressed that the United Nations and the humanitarian community continue to try to survive and provide services in the face of these increasing challenges and difficulties.

He called on the international community to defend international humanitarian law, “Demanding the protection of all civilians, insisting that Hamas release all hostages, defending UNRWA’s vital work, and breaking the cycle of violence.” He praised the humanitarian workers who are working to save the lives of civilians in these circumstances.