The UN and humanitarian organizations have raised urgent concerns about the nearly one million civilians in Gaza City who have been instructed by the Israeli military to evacuate but have no safe refuge.
“There is a severe escalation in Gaza City, with intensified Israeli military operations and mass evacuation orders,” stated the Humanitarian Country Team in the Occupied Palestinian Territory. “Civilians are trapped, with no secure options in either the north or south.” Gaza offensive
This alert comes just two weeks after famine was officially declared in Gaza Governorate. According to the WHO-led Health Cluster, 361 Palestinians – including 130 children – have died from malnutrition since the conflict began nearly two years ago. More than 500,000 people are enduring catastrophic conditions characterized by starvation and widespread deprivation. Gaza offensive
For those attempting to flee northern Gaza, escape is hindered by dangerous roads, overcrowded shelters, and unaffordable transportation costs. Gaza offensive
‘They all need food,’ pleads UN as Gaza descends deeper into famine
Aid agencies stressed that Gaza’s civilian population is at its breaking point. Hospitals are collapsing under immense pressure – Al-Shifa and Al-Ahli in Gaza City are operating at triple their capacity, dealing with an average of eight mass casualty events per day. A broader Israeli offensive could eliminate half of Gaza’s remaining hospital beds.
The Humanitarian Country Team also criticized continued Israeli restrictions on aid, warning that current levels of humanitarian support are drastically inadequate. Uninterrupted access to fuel, water, and supply routes is urgently needed to avoid even more dire outcomes.
Despite the risks, humanitarian workers remain committed: “We will stay in Gaza City and across the Strip as long as possible to provide lifesaving aid.” Gaza offensive
They concluded with a direct appeal to the global community: “Act now. Demand an immediate ceasefire, ensure respect for international humanitarian law, and secure the release of all hostages and detainees. This is a man-made disaster, and the world bears responsibility.” Gaza offensive
The war erupted when Hamas militants attacked southern Israel on October 7, 2023, killing around 1,200 people, most of them civilians. Besides, the Hamas militants took 251 people as hostages, currently 20 are believed to be alive in Hamas custody.
According to Gaza Health Ministry, Israeli attacks have killed at least 64,718 Palestinians during the 23-month offensive.
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Muhammad Luqman is Associate Editor at Views News Now. He writes on wide-ranging issues including economy, South Asia, the Middle East, agriculture, economy and innovation. Luqman has worked some of the leading news organizations and won acclaim for his original and research-based works.
