UN rights office urges probe into attack on Gaza-bound Sumud Flotilla

GENEVA

The UN human rights office on Wednesday called for an "independent, impartial and thorough investigation" into attacks against the Gaza-bound Global Sumud Flotilla, stressing that aid deliveries must not be obstructed.

"Attacks and threats against those trying to deliver aid to and support the hundreds of thousands of people in Gaza who are suffering famine and starvation defy belief," spokesperson Thameen Al-Kheetan said in a statement.

"There must be an independent, impartial and thorough investigation into the reported attacks and harassment by drones and other objects against the Gaza-bound Global Sumud Flotilla," he said, adding such attacks "must stop, and those responsible for violations must be held to account."

The statement underlined Israel's obligations as the occupying power to provide food and medical supplies "to the fullest extent of the means available" or facilitate impartial humanitarian relief.

UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Turk "calls on Israel to urgently lift the blockade on Gaza and allow the entry of life-saving material through all means possible," it added.