On the occasion of International Human Rights Day, the United Nations Humanitarian Coordinator in the Occupied Palestinian Territory, Lynn Hastings, delivered a somber assessment of the Israel-Hamas conflict. Hastings criticized Israel’s response to Hamas’ October 7 attack, deeming it disproportionate and a violation of human rights.
While condemning the October 7 attack by Hamas on Israel, Hastings underscored the obligations of non-state armed actors under international law. She insisted that those responsible for the attacks must be held accountable for the deaths, sexual violence, and kidnappings that traumatized the affected populations.
Since October 7, Israeli forces have inflicted widespread destruction in Gaza, turning much of it into a wasteland. Airstrikes have resulted in the displacement of nearly 2 million people, with entire neighborhoods reduced to rubble, according to the UN.
Hastings vehemently criticized Israel’s actions, stating that the airstrikes against civilians and civilian infrastructure, as well as the ongoing siege depriving Gaza’s population of essential resources, cannot be justified. She expressed disbelief that in 2023, such statements had to be issued, remarking, “It is as if we have learned nothing in the past 75 years.”
Amid the ongoing conflict, the official Palestinian news agency, WAFA, reported dozens of Palestinian civilian casualties in Israeli airstrikes across Gaza on Sunday. The Jabalya refugee camp in northern Gaza witnessed violent air raids, resulting in the deaths of 45 civilians, with additional individuals reportedly trapped under rubble. Nine more civilians were killed in Jabalya al-Balad.
In southern Gaza’s Khan Younis, a series of airstrikes and artillery shelling targeted residential areas, resulting in casualties. Hospitals in Khan Younis faced increased pressure, with reports of wounded individuals lying on the ground due to a shortage of beds, medicines, and medical supplies.
The Israel Defense Forces had issued an urgent appeal for civilians to evacuate much of Khan Younis, citing it as a main stronghold of Hamas. However, the lack of communication networks and internet availability in Gaza raised questions about the effectiveness of the instruction.
As the conflict continues, the humanitarian situation in Gaza remains dire, with escalating casualties and strained medical facilities adding to the challenges faced by the affected population.