Attacks on civilians are a serious violation of international law and constitute war crimes, according to the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Mr. Türk. His statement comes as reports indicate that Palestinians have been killed while seeking assistance for the third consecutive day. Mr. Türk has urged Israel to heed “binding orders” from the International Court of Justice, emphasizing the need for immediate and extensive cooperation with the United Nations to ensure that aid reaches the people of Gaza “without delay” and “at scale.” He stated, “There is no justification for failing to comply with these obligations.”
The introduction of a controversial aid initiative by the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation has raised concerns as it circumvents UN agencies, which are pleading for unobstructed access to deliver essential supplies. Despite some aid reaching the enclave, the distribution remains woefully inadequate compared to the urgent needs. The World Health Organization (WHO) reported pressing situations on the ground, revealing that 51 trucks loaded with medical supplies are ready to reach the few operational hospitals in Gaza. WHO spokesperson Tarik Jasarevic highlighted the dire need for access, lamenting, “No hospital in north Gaza is functional anymore,” after evacuating patients and staff from the last operating facility.
Critics have voiced their objections to the US-Israeli arrangement, claiming it hinders the most vulnerable populations, including children, the elderly, and individuals with disabilities, from receiving aid. Recipients must often traverse long distances to obtain supplies distributed on a first-come, first-served basis. Mr. Türk warned that obstructing access to food and life-saving relief may constitute a war crime. He also condemned the looming threat of starvation in Gaza and denounced the ongoing violence and destruction encountered over 20 months, saying that the residents are subjected to “intolerable, dehumanizing rhetoric” from Israeli leadership.
Jeremy Laurence, spokesperson for the UN human rights office, emphasized the need for a swift and independent investigation into the numerous killings in Gaza since the opening of the new aid hub on May 27. Laurence noted the climate of fear among Gazans, stating, “[They] are being forced to walk to these centers and now they’re terrified. Probably they go there thinking, ‘Am I going to get food or am I going to get shot?’”
Recent media reports have confirmed multiple killings around the southern Gaza aid hub, with violence involving helicopters, naval vessels, and ground troops. Laurence mentioned that the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) had also commented on the situation through social media, revealing their acknowledgment of the events. Those working on the ground have gathered testimonies indicating gunfire directed at individuals attempting to reach food distribution centers.
Reflecting on the High Commissioner’s grave concerns regarding potential “most serious crimes under international law,” Laurence clarified that this refers to war crimes, crimes against humanity, and genocide. The humanitarian crisis in Gaza continues to escalate, as civilians face increasing adversity amid pleas for aid and protection from international bodies.
Original Source: https://news.un.org/feed/view/en/story/2025/06/1163966
Category :
Tags:
Publish Date: 2025-06-03 17:30:00
