The Israeli military began its crackdown on northern Gaza earlier this month, killing hundreds of people so far, according to the local health ministry.
60,000 were newly displaced, most of whom fear they will never be able to return to their homes. Ordinary Palestinians fear being buried under the rubble of destroyed buildings, while the sick and injured are unable to access life-saving healthcare.
Trapped populations in northern Gaza also lack food and shelter. People have been separated from their families on a large scale and there have been mass detentions.
A spokesman for the top UN official issued a statement on his behalf on Sunday, describing the plight of Palestinian citizens in northern Gaza as intolerable.
Secretary-General Guterres warned that the actions of the Israeli military have caused widespread destruction and human deprivation, particularly in the areas of Jabalia, Beit Lahia and Beit Hanoun.
Efforts are being made to deliver food, medicine and other humanitarian aid to the impoverished population, but the Israeli administration is refusing it, putting people’s lives at risk.
Due to the current situation, the final round of polio vaccine doses in northern Gaza has been temporarily suspended, adding to the suffering of thousands of children.
Disregard for international law
The UN spokesman said that the requirements of international humanitarian law had not been taken into account in the violent conflict in Gaza.
In view of this, the Secretary-General noted that all warring parties must ensure the protection of civilians, including humanitarian aid workers.
Even during wartime, emergency work must be allowed to continue and obstacles avoided.
The UN chief again called for the swift implementation of a ceasefire in Gaza, the unconditional release of all hostages and accountability for crimes committed during the war.