During the routine press briefing, Farhan Haq, the UN Deputy Spokesperson for the Secretary-General, addressed pressing concerns in the Middle East, focusing on the escalating situation in Gaza.
Continued Israeli Military Actions
Haq reported that the Israeli military’s operations against shelters and residences in Gaza persist without interruption, resulting in numerous Palestinian casualties and injuries over recent days.
“Supplies are Critically Low,” Haq Stresses
He stated, “For nearly two months, no supplies have been allowed into Gaza. Stocks are not just dwindling; they are on the verge of being completely exhausted.”
Haq elaborated, “This situation leaves over 2 million residents facing acute shortages of essential resources such as food, water, shelter, medicine, and other critical supplies.” He mentioned that temporary kitchens, which serve meals to the population, have been forced to cease operations this week.
Emergency Shelter Kits Nearly Exhausted
The last remaining emergency shelter kits, which exclude tents, are expected to be depleted in a few days. Haq explained that the Israeli army has demolished over a dozen work vehicles, hindering efforts to manage sewage pits located a mere 10 meters from densely populated areas.
Healthcare System Under Strain
According to Haq, a mere seven hospitals and four field hospitals across Gaza continue to offer maternity and newborn care, albeit at reduced capacity due to indiscriminate Israeli attacks.
“Hospitals are experiencing a surge in cases of malnourished, pregnant, and nursing women, with most newborns now being delivered underweight,” Haq highlighted.
Challenges in Water Distribution
He also noted the challenges in distributing water due to the unavailability of generators, solar panels, and pipelines, pointing out that Israel routinely denies requests for the necessary fuel to operate these systems.
Haq concluded by emphasizing that crucial hygiene products and other necessities for women in Gaza have been entirely depleted.
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