learnedutoday
The United Nations cautioned that an Israeli offensive on Rafah in the Gaza Strip loomed, despite Israel’s promised aid access improvements. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres urged influential states to intervene, emphasizing the catastrophic consequences of a Rafah operation.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu remained resolute in pursuing the assault, irrespective of Hamas’s response to cease-fire proposals. UN aid chief Martin Griffiths labeled a ground operation in Rafah as tragic, stressing the urgent need to avert it.
While Israel pledged aid access enhancements following US pressure, Guterres noted incremental progress but stressed the imperative for more. He urged Israel to fulfill commitments to open crossings to the north, emphasizing the dire humanitarian situation.
The UN-backed report warned of famine in northern Gaza, heightening the urgency for increased aid access. Guterres emphasized the gravity of the situation, urging efforts to avoid a devastating outcome.
Discussions between the US and Israel aimed to boost aid access, with Guterres highlighting the importance of reaching an agreement to mitigate the conflict’s escalation.
Efforts to facilitate maritime aid deliveries from Cyprus are underway, but Guterres underscored the necessity of land routes for substantial aid delivery.
Israel’s retaliation against Hamas stemmed from an October attack, with casualties on both sides. However, the extent of casualties remains disputed.
In conclusion, despite some progress, the humanitarian crisis in Gaza persists, with the UN urging immediate action to avert further tragedy.
Haseeb Abdullah
