HAMILTON, Canada

The UN Office on Genocide Prevention and the Responsibility to Protect on Wednesday voiced “grave” concern about the escalating violence in the Gaza Strip following extensive Israeli airstrikes.

"These developments signal a troubling and dramatic escalation of violence with irreversible consequences," Acting Special Adviser on the Prevention of Genocide Virginia Gamba and Special Adviser on the Responsibility to Protect Mo Bleeker said in a statement.

It came after Israel pounded Gaza early Tuesday, killing more than 400 victims and injuring hundreds, according to the Palestinian Health Ministry.

It is the most severe violence Gaza has witnessed since a ceasefire took effect Jan. 19.

The advisers condemned Israel's decision in early March to suspend humanitarian aid entry into the enclave, warning that it has worsened the humanitarian crisis.

"Any further delay in the delivery of humanitarian assistance risks further starvation and suffering among Gaza’s civilian population," they said.

Calling for urgent de-escalation, Gamba and Bleeker urged all parties to "prioritize the protection of civilians and to take immediate steps to prevent further loss of life and engage in a solid political solution."

The statement also echoed UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres’ demand for a ceasefire, the restoration of humanitarian access and the unconditional release of hostages.