In reaction to Hamas’ October 7 attack on Israel, the leading UN rights advocate yesterday demanded an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, where people are facing non-stop brutal and indiscriminate Israeli bombardment.
In a statement, United Nations’ Rights Chief Volker Turk said: The first step must be an immediate humanitarian ceasefire, saving the lives of civilians through the delivery of prompt and effective humanitarian aid.
He added: This violence will never end unless leaders stand up and make the brave and humane choices that are required by fundamental humanity.
Turk concluded: Far too many civilian lives, many of them children, have already been lost on both sides as a consequence of these hostilities. And, unless something changes, the coming days will see more civilians on the brink of death from continuing bombardment.
To date, Israeli bombings in Gaza have claimed the lives of over 5,000 Palestinians, including more than 2,000 children. Earlier today, Israeli bombing attacks on the southern part of the besieged region claimed many lives.
Furthermore, Israeli officials have cut off the supply of food, fuel, electricity, water, and other necessities.
Until now, the international community remains divided toward a potential halt to the fighting despite the urgent need for aid to reach Palestinians in Gaza.
