UN Official Denounces Israel’s Gaza Offensive as Catastrophic
NEW YORK — In a fiery statement on Friday, Martin Griffiths, the top relief official at the UN, did not hold back in condemning Israel’s ongoing military operation in the Gaza Strip, labeling the situation as a dire humanitarian crisis filled with “suffering and misery.”
Griffiths made it clear that the outcry from around the world over the offensive has reached a deafening level, making it impossible to ignore the devastating impact on the people of Gaza.
Painting a grim picture of the military actions in Rafah, Griffiths revealed that more than 800,000 individuals have been forced from their homes, with many now residing in areas lacking basic necessities like shelter, sanitation, and clean water.
Highlighting the repercussions of the offensive, Griffiths pointed out that not only has aid flow into southern Gaza been disrupted, but crucial humanitarian efforts have been brought to a standstill as food distributions have been halted and fuel supplies cut off, endangering the survival of the region.
Despite international pleas for Israel to show restraint in Rafah, Griffiths emphasized the growing chorus of voices demanding an immediate halt to the offensive.
He referenced recent actions taken by the international community, such as the UN Security Council’s resolution to protect humanitarian and UN personnel, and the International Court of Justice’s directive for Israel to cease military activities in Rafah.
“This is a moment of clarity,” declared Griffiths, stressing the importance of upholding the rules of warfare that mandate the protection of civilians and the unimpeded delivery of humanitarian aid.
Calling for urgent action, Griffiths urged, “Release the hostages. Agree to a ceasefire. End this nightmare.” — Agencies
