Middle East on Brink of Catastrophe: UN Chief’s Desperate Plea
(The Post News)- United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres has expressed grave concerns over the escalating violence along the Blue Line, citing alarming civilian casualties and displacement in Gaza and Lebanon. The Secretary-General emphasised the urgent need for a diplomatic solution, reiterating that military action will only perpetuate suffering.
The ongoing bombardment and hostilities in Gaza continue to put civilians’ lives in danger, with devastating consequences. Three schools were hit by airstrikes, killing dozens of people, including women and children. Approximately 2.1 million Palestinians lack basic necessities such as food, water, shelter, healthcare, education, and electricity.
Furthermore, only 17 out of 36 hospitals are partially functioning, struggling with severe shortages of fuel, medicine, and supplies. The UN Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) reported that schools have turned into rubble or overcrowded places of refuge for displaced families living in fear.
Efforts are underway to establish temporary learning spaces for children, with over 2,000 learning spaces established across the Gaza Strip, aiming to reach 33,000 children. In Lebanon, the conflict has resulted in over 274 fatalities and 700 injuries, with thousands displaced.
Humanitarian organisations urgently require $50 million to address basic needs. Schools have been closed, with many converted into shelters. The Lebanese government has activated an emergency operations centre and designated schools as shelters.
The Secretary-General urges all parties to recommit to the full implementation of Security Council resolution 1701 and immediately return to a cessation of hostilities and restore stability. He emphasises that there is no military solution that will make either side safer and that space must be given for diplomatic efforts to succeed.
The Secretary-General has stressed that civilians must be protected and their essential needs must be met. He also called for accountability for serious violations of international humanitarian and human rights law. Humanitarian organisations require safe, rapid, and unimpeded access to deliver essential assistance and services.
The international community must come together to demand an immediate ceasefire and support diplomatic efforts to resolve the conflict. The United Nations and humanitarian organisations stand ready to provide critical assistance, but their efforts depend on an unconditional ceasefire and unimpeded access to affected areas.
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