As the conflict in Gaza continues unabated, a senior official from the United Nations has expressed deep concerns about the ongoing humanitarian disaster and a lack of resolution to the crisis. During a recent briefing to the UN Security Council, Ramiz Alakbarov, the UN Deputy Special Coordinator for the Middle East Peace Process, highlighted the stark choice facing decision-makers: to continue on a path of perpetual conflict or to recommit to a political process that could lead to a two-state solution.
“Today the world looks on in horror as the situation in the Occupied Palestinian Territory continues to deteriorate to levels not seen in recent history,” Alakbarov remarked, signifying the gravity of the situation. With over 22 months of hostilities, Gaza is grappling with an escalating humanitarian catastrophe. We see a shocking rise in civilian casualties, massive displacement, and the onset of famine affecting the population.
The UN’s latest assessments reveal that over half a million people in Gaza currently face starvation and destitution, with projections indicating this figure could exceed 640,000 by the end of September. The reports issued by UN-backed agencies emphasise that virtually no one in the enclave is untouched by hunger.
Alakbarov’s visit to Gaza showcased the shocking scale of destruction and suffering, as he recounted the harrowing conditions faced by hostages held by Hamas and other armed groups. Reports indicate that these individuals are enduring appalling conditions while the international community watches in dismay.
Joyce Msuya, UN Deputy Emergency Relief Coordinator, painted a dire picture, outlining that around one million people are in Emergency IPC (Infection Prevention and Control) Phase 4, and over 390,000 are in Crisis IPC Phase 3. The impact on vulnerable groups, particularly children and pregnant women, has been devastating. Msuya warned that an estimated 132,000 children under the age of five are expected to suffer from acute malnutrition within the next three years, with the number of those at risk of death tripling to over 43,000.
While there has been a slight increase in the scale of humanitarian aid reaching Gaza, the ongoing conflict has made it perilous for aid workers, journalists, and other civilian populations attempting to deliver assistance. The situation underscores the urgent need for a ceasefire and a political resolution that prioritises the welfare of the millions caught in the crossfire.
Ultimately, as the prospects for peace remain bleak.