In a statement written at the end of his two-day visit to Israel and the Palestinian territories, UN humanitarian chief Martin Griffiths believes that “October 7 and its aftermath will leave an indelible mark on the lives of millions of people.” . “Meanwhile, the world seems unable or unwilling to act. This situation cannot continue. We need radical change,” he writes. It calls for the “immediate and unconditional release of the hostages” but also for “the provision of vital elements – especially water, food, medicine and fuel – safely, immediately and on a large scale” in Gaza.
“The more than 200 trucks that have so far entered the Gaza Strip after laborious negotiations represent some relief, but are far from enough,” he said. “The belligerents must agree to a pause in fighting,” emphasizes the UN official, who sees this as “the only viable solution” for the delivery of aid. “It is necessary for the parties to respect their obligations under international humanitarian law,” but also for “influential people to use their influence to enforce the rules of war, defuse the conflict and prevent it.” ‘Prolong’, pleads “If we don’t act now, the consequences will reach far beyond the region,” he warns and laments “a global crisis.”