60 Palestinians Killed In Gaza Amid Ongoing Violence, UNRWA Issues Urgent Warning On Humanitarian Crisis

Recent reports indicate that at least 60 Palestinians have died and 284 others have been injured in the Gaza Strip within the past day due to ongoing Israeli military actions. Local health officials have reported that since October 2023, the conflict has resulted in 54,381 Palestinian deaths and 124,381 injuries, with women and children being the primary victims.

Philippe Lazzarini, Commissioner-General of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA), highlighted the severe shortage of humanitarian aid reaching Gaza. He stated that the current aid is insufficient compared to the massive humanitarian crisis in the area. Lazzarini emphasized that political will is crucial to prevent famine in Gaza.

Lazzarini stressed, "What we are asking for is not impossible," urging for UN intervention to deliver essential aid and maintain dignity for those affected. He revealed that only 900 aid trucks had entered Gaza over two weeks, meeting just 10% of daily needs. Political action is necessary to stop the famine.

The resumption of hostilities on March 18 after a two-month ceasefire has led to a death toll of 4,117 Palestinians and injuries to 12,013 others. During the previous ceasefire, UNRWA and other agencies managed to deliver between 600 and 800 trucks daily. This shows that meeting aid requirements is possible if access is granted.

Lazzarini called for UN agencies and humanitarian groups to resume operations in Gaza. Aid truck deliveries have been halted since March 2, further exacerbating the crisis. The need for political solutions rather than just logistical efforts was underscored by Lazzarini as essential for addressing the humanitarian needs effectively.

The ongoing conflict continues to take a heavy toll on civilians in Gaza, with significant casualties reported daily. The international community's response remains critical in addressing both immediate humanitarian needs and long-term solutions for peace and stability in the region.

With inputs from WAM