UN chief expresses shock at devastation in northern Gaza

ISTANBUL

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres expressed shock on Sunday at the horrific levels of death, injury, and destruction in northern Gaza, criticizing Israeli authorities for continuing to deny humanitarian aid deliveries with few exceptions.

He warned that the conditions for Palestinian civilians trapped in the region have become untenable due to Israel's military operations in North Gaza, according to a statement issued by Guterres spokesman Stephane Dujarric.

The UN chief emphasized the critical situation in Jabalia, Beit Lahiya, and Beit Hanoun, where civilians are trapped under rubble without access to essential medical care, food, or shelter, and stated that Israeli authorities continue to deny humanitarian aid deliveries with "few exceptions."

Of particular concern is the postponement of the polio vaccination campaign, which the statement says puts thousands of children at risk.

The postponement of the polio vaccination campaign is especially concerning, as it puts thousands of children at risk, said the statement.

Emphasizing that the conflict is being waged with "little regard for international humanitarian law," Guterres called for an immediate cease-fire, the unconditional release of all hostages, and accountability "in the name of humanity."

The secretary-general also stressed the urgent need to protect humanitarian workers and first responders in the region, whose vital work must be facilitated and protected.

The Israeli army has continued a devastating offensive on the Gaza Strip since a Hamas attack last year, despite a UN Security Council resolution demanding an immediate cease-fire.

Nearly 43,000 people have since been killed, mostly women and children, and over 100,000 others injured, according to local health authorities.

The Israeli onslaught has displaced almost the territory’s entire population amid an ongoing blockade that has led to severe shortages of food, clean water, and medicine.

Israel also faces a genocide case at the International Court of Justice for its actions in Gaza.