Gaza City – The United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) has strongly condemned what it describes as the ‘collective punishment’ of Palestinians, as the number of casualties in Gaza surges past 61,700. The agency’s statement comes amid ongoing Israeli attacks and a deepening humanitarian crisis, with recent reports indicating dozens of Palestinians killed and many more injured in strikes across the region, including civilian areas.
“Nothing can justify the collective punishment of an entire population,” stated a spokesperson for UNRWA. “The ongoing violence and restrictions on humanitarian aid are exacerbating an already dire situation, pushing countless families to the brink.”
The condemnation from UNRWA arrives as international scrutiny intensifies, with the International Court of Justice (ICJ) weighing in on the humanitarian aid situation in Gaza and hearing arguments regarding Israel’s obligations. Concerns are also mounting over a severe malnutrition crisis among children in Gaza, with reports indicating tens of thousands of cases.
Efforts to establish a ceasefire are reportedly underway in Cairo, with some reports suggesting ‘significant breakthrough’ or ‘a bit of progress’. However, the situation on the ground remains fraught with violence and uncertainty.
The Israeli-Palestinian conflict has deep historical roots, marked by territorial disputes and displacement. The current crisis is a stark reminder of the urgent need for a lasting resolution that addresses the fundamental rights and needs of all parties involved.
