The watered-down resolution that passed on Friday aimed at boosting aid to Gaza has faced severe criticism from several countries, branding it as “nearly meaningless.” As Israel continues its deadly bombardment, recent attacks have been reported in the Nuseirat refugee camp and Khan Younis.
Al Haq, along with 31 Palestinian human rights and humanitarian organisations, has raised concerns in a letter to the UN Secretary-General, accusing UN aid agencies of aiding Israel’s war objectives in breach of international law. The letter contends that through coordination with Israel and compliance with unlawful restrictions, these agencies have failed to act independently.
The World Health Organization (WHO) chief stated that “famine is looming in Gaza” due to restricted access to food and critical supplies resulting from the ongoing conflict. The Gaza Government Media Office reports that over 20,000 Palestinians have lost their lives in Israeli attacks. The health ministry reported over 53,300 people wounded.
Amid severe food shortages and import bans imposed by Israel, local butchers in Gaza struggle to meet the demands of a starving population. The World Food Program (WFP) reports that half of Gaza’s population starves, with only 10 percent of the required food entering Gaza. The price of meat has surged from about 16 shekels ($4.4) to 28 shekels ($7.6) per kilo.
WHO highlighted the growing disease risk due to a lack of clean water, food, and medicine.
Hamas has called on the Red Cross and prisoners’ rights groups to pressure Israel to disclose the fate of hundreds of Palestinians detained by Israeli forces in Gaza. The majority of Palestinian prisoners face administrative detention, a process allowing initial imprisonment for six months, extendable indefinitely without charge or trial.
Critics highlight the discriminatory two-tier justice system, where most Palestinians, including children, are tried in military courts, deprived of defence lawyers and due process. In contrast, Israeli citizens are tried in civil courts.
