Geneva, The United Nations Human Rights Office has issued grave concerns over the ongoing conflict in Gaza, now reaching its sixth month, and the acceleration of Israeli settlements in the West Bank.
According to Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights, spokesperson Jeremy Laurence conveyed the dire situation in Gaza as it faces potential escalation with the upcoming Ramadan period. He emphasized the catastrophic consequences of a possible Israeli offensive into Rafah, where over 1.5 million people face dire conditions. The office calls for an immediate halt to the conflict and stresses the necessity of unimpeded humanitarian access to Gaza to prevent further civilian suffering.
Furthermore, the report from the Head of the UN Human Rights Office for the Occupied Palestinian Territory, Ajith Sunghay, outlines the rapid expansion of Israeli settlements, marking a clear violation of international law. The construction of additional settler homes in Maale Adumim, Efrat, and Kedar exacerbates the plight of Palestinians, contributing to increased violence and displacement in the region. The report condemns the actions of the Israeli government and underscores the imperative for adherence to international humanitarian laws, emphasizing that violations could lead to individual criminal liability.
The High Commissioner reiterates the call for all states to respect and ensure adherence to the Geneva Conventions, urging them not to facilitate any actions that contravene humanitarian law. The UN Human Rights Office continues to advocate for the cessation of unlawful activities and the establishment of a viable solution to the conflict, ensuring the protection and rights of all affected civilian populations.