The head of the United Nations, Antonio Guterres, expressed his horror at the recent strike by Israeli forces on a convoy of ambulances in Gaza. In a statement, Guterres called for an immediate end to the conflict, stating that the situation in Gaza is horrific and must be addressed.
Attack on Ambulance Convoy
The Palestinian Red Crescent Society reported that one of its ambulances was hit by a missile fired by Israeli forces just outside the entrance to a hospital in Gaza City. The attack resulted in the death of 15 people and left more than 60 others wounded. The images of bodies strewn on the street outside the hospital are harrowing, according to Guterres.
Israel’s Explanation
Israel’s military claimed that it had targeted an ambulance that was being used by a Hamas terrorist cell in close proximity to their position in the battle zone. While acknowledging the terror attacks committed by Hamas in Israel, Guterres emphasized that the civilian population in Gaza has been besieged for nearly a month, with limited access to aid and facing constant bombings.
Horrific Humanitarian Situation
Guterres described the humanitarian situation in Gaza as horrific. The lack of food, water, and medicine is alarming, and essential resources like fuel for hospitals and water plants are running out. The UN shelters in Gaza are overcrowded, being hit in bombardments, and morgues are overflowing. The sanitation situation is abysmal, leading to an increase in diseases and respiratory illnesses, especially among children. The entire population is traumatized, and nowhere is safe.
Call for Ceasefire
In light of the dire situation, Guterres reiterated his call for an immediate ceasefire. He also demanded the release of hostages taken by Hamas during their initial attack on October 7. Israeli officials claim that more than 1,400 people, mostly civilians, were killed in that attack. In response, Israel has been bombarding the Gaza Strip, resulting in the deaths of over 9,200 people, predominantly women and children, according to the Hamas-run health ministry.
Respect for International Humanitarian Law
Guterres urged all sides to respect international humanitarian law and prioritize the protection of civilians. He called on those with influence to exert it in order to end the suffering and prevent the conflict from spreading further and engulfing the entire region.
Conclusion
The recent strike on an ambulance convoy in Gaza has shocked the international community, with the head of the United Nations expressing his horror at the incident. Antonio Guterres called for an immediate end to the conflict and emphasized the dire humanitarian situation in Gaza. The lack of essential resources, overcrowded shelters, and overflowing morgues paint a grim picture of life in the region. Guterres urged all parties involved to respect international humanitarian law and prioritize the protection of civilians. It is crucial for those with influence to exert it and work towards ending the suffering and preventing further escalation of the conflict.
Saturday, November 4, 2023