The UN human rights chief has described the ongoing conflict in Gaza as reaching its “darkest moment,” particularly in the northern region of the territory.
Volker Türk emphasized the humanitarian crisis, stating, “The Israeli military is subjecting an entire population to bombings, siege, and the risk of starvation.”
Türk urged global leaders to uphold their responsibilities under the Geneva Conventions to maintain respect for international humanitarian law.
While the Israeli military reported killing “hundreds of terrorists” and evacuating thousands of civilians in Jabalia since October 6, there has been no immediate response regarding the allegations against its actions.
In a concerning development, the head of the World Health Organization has expressed deep alarm over reports of Israeli troops raiding one of the last operational hospitals in northern Gaza.
Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus confirmed the WHO lost contact with Kamal Adwan hospital, which was overwhelmed with nearly 200 patients amid escalating Israeli military actions in Jabalia.
Reports from Gaza’s health ministry indicate that Israeli forces detained patients, staff, and displaced residents. The military has stated its actions were based on intelligence regarding the presence of terrorists.
The conflict has already resulted in hundreds of Palestinian fatalities and caused tens of thousands to flee their homes since the Israeli incursion into Jabalia.
Those unable or unwilling to evacuate are facing severe shortages of food and essential supplies, leading to a rapidly worsening humanitarian situation.
Türk warned that the northern Gaza population is facing continuous bombings, with hundreds of thousands forced to relocate without any assurance of return.
The UN human rights chief characterized the situation as increasingly dire, stating, “Unimaginably, the situation is deteriorating daily.”
He further asserted that Israeli governmental policies in northern Gaza pose a threat to the existence of the Palestinian population, suggesting potential atrocity crimes.
Additionally, he condemned reports of Palestinian armed groups operating among civilians, endangering their safety.
Türk emphasized the responsibility of all nations to act immediately to uphold human rights and civilian protection.
With the potential for genocide recognized globally, he called for urgent actions from nations, reminding them of their obligations to prevent such outcomes.
Israel has routinely rejected accusations of war crimes, contending that claims against it stem from embedded bias within international organizations.
Recently, the Gaza health ministry reported that Israeli forces forcibly entered Kamal Adwan hospital, detaining hundreds of patients and personnel.
Allegations surfaced that displaced individuals were subjected to humiliating treatment, including forced disrobing, while medical staff reported losing contact after being called to meet with Israeli forces outside the hospital.
Dr. Hussam Abu Safiya, the hospital director, expressed distress over the conditions, sharing alarming footage of the damage inside the facility.
“Instead of aid, we are faced with tanks that are shelling the building,” he reported.
According to Eid Sabbah, the nursing director, the situation escalated overnight with Israeli forces initiating fire on the hospital premises, prompting a temporary retreat when a WHO delegation arrived.
However, military engagement resumed, causing significant damage to hospital infrastructure.
Dr. Tedros confirmed that a WHO team managed to reach the hospital amidst ongoing hostilities on Thursday night, facilitating the transfer of 23 patients and 26 caregivers to al-Shifa hospital in Gaza City, along with essential medical supplies.
He noted the WHO’s continued attempts to regain communication with the hospital staff following the raid reports.
Dr. Tedros highlighted the critical situation at Kamal Adwan Hospital, which was inundated with patients in need of urgent medical care.
The organization called for an immediate ceasefire and staunch protection for healthcare facilities and humanitarian efforts amidst the conflict.
The Israeli military asserted its operations were based on intelligence regarding terrorist activity in the vicinity of the hospital.
Additionally, they mentioned having facilitated patient evacuations prior to the operation while maintaining emergency services in the area.
In the international arena, Jordan’s Foreign Minister called on U.S. officials to exert pressure on Israel in light of the deteriorating humanitarian conditions in northern Gaza.
He characterized the situation as approaching ethnic cleansing and urged for immediate action.
Concerns persist among Palestinians regarding the Israeli military’s alleged “Generals’ Plan,” which purportedly aims to forcibly displace Gazans to the south and isolate any remaining threats.
The Israeli military has denied such orchestrated efforts, asserting their aim of safeguarding civilians.
Safadi highlighted the tenuous state of peace in the region, indicating that the continuation of hostilities could trigger wider conflict.
U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken acknowledged the urgent need for diplomatic resolutions amidst rising tensions in the region.
This comes as Israel prepares to facilitate discussions involving intelligence officials to revitalize ceasefire negotiations.
The conflict has escalated dramatically following the unprecedented attack by Hamas that began on October 7, resulting in substantial casualties and ongoing warfare.
According to local health authorities, the death toll in Gaza has surpassed 42,840 individuals since the resurgence of violence.
