The situation in Gaza has escalated as Israeli military operations intensify in the north, prompting forced evacuations despite fears that nowhere in Gaza is truly safe, according to Philippe Lazzarini, Commissioner-General of UNRWA. Amid heavy bombardment and ongoing ground operations, vital services are shutting down, Lazzarini reported. Evacuation orders have been issued for areas including Jabalia refugee camp, Beit Lahia, and Beit Hanoun. In Jabalia, only two out of eight water wells remain functional, affecting around 400,000 people still in northern Gaza. The UN agency is also evacuating seven schools that had served as shelters.
The conflict has left children particularly vulnerable, with rising hunger levels due to scarce supplies. Local health authorities report that at least 45 people have been killed and 130 injured in the last 24 hours. Since recent Hamas-led attacks in Israel, the death toll in Gaza has risen to over 42,000, with 97,700 more wounded.
Meanwhile, Lebanon is experiencing relentless bombardment due to heightened tensions. UN aid coordination reports indicate significant displacement, with more than 2,083 deaths and 9,869 injuries since early October amid increasing Hezbollah strikes. Israeli displacement orders now affect 25% of Lebanese territory, leading to massive relocations in southern Lebanon.
Approximately 1.2 million people are internally displaced, including 350,000 children. Over 180,700 are in shelters, many of which are at capacity. The conflict has delayed education, and the UN emphasizes the urgent need to protect civilians and enable humanitarian aid deliveries amid the violence.
Urgent international action is crucial to mitigate the harm to civilians and ensure safe access for aid workers amidst the escalating conflict.
Original Story https://news.un.org/feed/view/en/story/2024/10/1155501
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