United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres expressed his deep concern over the Israeli enemy forces’ shelling of the Al-Ahli Arab Baptist Hospital on Sunday, paralyzing it and damaging the already dire health care system in the Strip.
In a press statement issued on his behalf last night, the Secretary-General stated that, under international humanitarian law, the wounded, sick, medical personnel, and medical facilities, including hospitals, must be respected and protected.
He noted that medical supplies are constantly dwindling, while hospitals are overwhelmed with casualties.
Guterres noted that approximately 70 percent of Gaza is now subject to displacement orders issued by the Israeli entity or within a no-go zone, leaving Palestinians in Gaza without safe haven and with little or no source of livelihood.
He expressed his deep concern about the continued blockade of aid, as Israel has not allowed the entry of any humanitarian aid or other essential supplies for more than seven weeks.
Guterres warned that the humanitarian consequences are dire, with food stocks running low, water production declining sharply, and shelter materials almost completely depleted.
He reiterated that “the United Nations will not participate in any aid delivery arrangement that does not fully respect the humanitarian principles of humanity, impartiality, independence, and neutrality.”
Guterres emphasized the need to “respect and protect civilians at all times, provide them with the basic necessities for their survival, and restore and renew the ceasefire without delay.”
