ALBAWABA - As Israel intensifies its bombardment of Gaza, Secretary-General Antonio Guterres expressed his deep concern over "clear violations" of international law in Gaza, and emphasized that "no party to an armed conflict is above international humanitarian law".
"I am deeply concerned about clear violations of international humanitarian law that we are witnessing. Let me be clear: No party to an armed conflict is above international humanitarian law," said the UN chief during a news conference at the UN headquarters in New York.
According to Guterres, a $1.2 billion humanitarian appeal would be suggested by the UN and its allies to aid 2.7 million Palestinians in the besieged strip.
"More than a humanitarian crisis," said Guterres, describing the situation in the enclave which has been under a brutal Israeli bombardment since October 7.
He emphasized that the protection of civilians must be paramount and highlighted that Gaza is becoming a graveyard for children, with hundreds of girls and boys reportedly being killed or injured daily, the Anadolu Agency reported.
"The unfolding catastrophe makes the need for a humanitarian cease-fire more urgent with every passing hour," said Guterres.
"The parties to the conflict, and, indeed, the international community, face an immediate and fundamental responsibility: To stop the inhuman collective suffering and dramatically expand humanitarian aid to Gaza," he added.
Hamas operation against Israel
Hamas military group announced on Oct. 7 a military operation called "Al-Aqsa Flood" against Israel which is the biggest offensive in decades.
Palestinian fighters “infiltrated” Israel from the Gaza Strip capturing military bases and taking hostages as photos and videos went viral online showing Hamas fighters on vehicles inside Israel and others paragliding into occupation territory.
In response, Israeli armed forces announced targeting Hamas positions inside the Gaza Strip. Thousands were killed, and dozens of thousands of others were injured in the Israeli attacks on the Gaza Strip.
As the Israeli aggression enters its second month on the besieged strip, according to the Ministry of Health's latest report, Israeli forces managed to kill more than 10,022 Palestinians, including 4,104 children and 2,641.
Additionally, 24,808 have reportedly been injured varying between severe and minor injuries. Ministry of Health also received 2,660 reports of missing people, most of whom are children.
