UNITED NATIONS: UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Wednesday renewed the call for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, condemning the ongoing Israeli military operations amidst a dire humanitarian crisis in the besieged enclave.
In a statement, the UN Chief expressed deep concern over the deteriorating situation in Gaza and ongoing Israeli brutalities and barbarism against innocent Palestinians, citing the collapse of several medical services and a devastating loss of life.
During a daily press conference, Stephane Dujarric, the spokesperson for the UN chief, confirmed that as of Monday, all hospitals in the northern half of Gaza, except al-Shifa, have been rendered inoperable due to the disruption of electrical medical devices caused by a shortage of fuel. The crisis has left 500 patients at Al-Shifa Hospital as the sole facility providing medical services.
Israel Bans Fuel Supply to Gaza
The lack of fuel in Gaza, exacerbated by Israel’s refusal to allow the entry of gasoline or diesel, has had cascading effects. A water distribution plant in the southern part of the enclave ceased operations on Monday, impacting the water supply for 100,000 Palestinian people.
Furthermore, the ongoing fuel shortage raises concerns about the delivery of humanitarian aid. If Israel does not lift its fuel ban, trucks delivering aid, which have amounted to 1,096 to date, with 150 delivered yesterday alone, may cease operations within the next 48 hours.
