NEW YORK: The United Nations expressed deep concern on Tuesday over Israel’s continued bombardment of the central Gaza Strip, calling on Israeli forces to take all necessary measures to safeguard civilians in the conflict zone. The UN Human Rights Office emphasized the importance of adhering to international humanitarian law in all attacks.
In a statement, Seif Magango, spokesperson for the rights office, stated, “We are gravely concerned about the continued bombardment of central Gaza by Israeli forces.” The statement highlighted the intensified strikes, particularly troubling after Israeli forces directed residents from the south of Gaza Strip to relocate to central Gaza and Tal al-Sultan in Rafah.
The health ministry in Gaza reported that at least 70 people lost their lives in an Israeli air strike on Sunday at the Al-Maghazi refugee camp. On Monday, central areas, including the Nuseirat refugee camp, witnessed 50 strikes, contributing to a dire humanitarian situation.
Severe Impact of Israeli Attacks on Civilians in Gaza
Magango underscored the severe impact on civilians, with damaged roads obstructing relief aid and overcrowded, under-resourced shelters and hospitals operating at a minimal capacity. The death toll has been rising amidst what Magango described as a “deepening and already catastrophic humanitarian situation.”
The ongoing conflict, which started on October 7, has claimed the lives of 20,915 Palestinian people, mostly women and children, according to the health ministry in Gaza.
“We restate our warning that all attacks must strictly adhere to the principles of international humanitarian law, including distinction, proportionality, and precaution in attack,” emphasized Magango. He stressed that Israeli forces must fulfill their international humanitarian law obligations. He said that warnings and evacuation orders do not absolve Israel of these responsibilities.
Israel’s military reported striking over 100 targets in the past 24 hours in central Jabalia and Khan Younis in the south, signaling the continuation of heavy ground combat in the region.
