UN Human Rights Commissioner Volker Türk Issues Urgent Warning About Humanitarian Catastrophe In Gaza

The UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Türk, has alerted the global community to a "human-rights catastrophe continuing to unfold in Gaza before the eyes of the world." His comments were made during an emergency meeting of the UN Security Council on Friday, focusing on the deteriorating health services in Gaza. This meeting was initiated by Algeria, which recently assumed the presidency of the UN Security Council.

Türk pointed out that Israel's military actions have resulted in tens of thousands of deaths and widespread displacement and destruction throughout Gaza. He referenced a recent report from his Office that outlines a pattern of attacks on hospitals. These attacks typically start with Israeli airstrikes, followed by ground raids and the detention of patients and staff, rendering hospitals essentially non-functional.

Highlighting the severity of these actions, Türk stated, "The protection of hospitals during warfare is paramount and must be respected by all sides, at all times." He emphasised that military operations should always differentiate between military targets and civilians. The use of heavy weapons against hospitals contradicts this principle.

The destruction caused by Israeli military strikes on Kamal Adwan hospital last Friday exemplifies this pattern. It was the last operational hospital in north Gaza. Staff and patients were forced to evacuate or were detained, with numerous reports of torture and mistreatment. The hospital director was also taken into custody, with his current status unknown.

Türk stressed that failing to adhere to these principles breaches international humanitarian law. He described the intentional destruction of hospitals and medical facilities as collective punishment and a war crime. He called for independent, thorough, and transparent investigations into all Israeli attacks on healthcare infrastructure and personnel.

The UN official also urged investigations into allegations regarding the misuse of medical facilities. Such actions undermine international norms and could have severe legal consequences if proven true.

In summary, Türk's remarks underscore the urgent need for accountability in Gaza. The ongoing conflict has devastated healthcare services, affecting countless lives. Ensuring respect for international humanitarian laws is crucial to preventing further human rights violations in the region.

With inputs from WAM