UN Advisers Call for Immediate Action to Address Escalating Violence in Gaza
Concerns Mount Over Humanitarian Crisis Following Renewed Israeli Airstrikes
Two senior United Nations advisers have raised urgent concerns regarding escalating violence in Gaza, following a series of deadly Israeli airstrikes that commenced on March 18, 2025. UN Acting Special Adviser on the Prevention of Genocide, Virginia Gamba, and Special Adviser on the Responsibility to Protect, Mo Bleeker, have warned that ongoing hostilities could lead to 'irreversible consequences' for the region.
The recent airstrikes mark the most significant military action in Gaza since a ceasefire was established two months prior.
The conflict has reportedly resulted in hundreds of fatalities and numerous injuries among the civilian population.
In a joint statement, Gamba and Bleeker emphasized the critical need for all parties to focus on civilian protection and de-escalate tensions, in order to prevent further loss of life.
Alongside the military violence, the humanitarian situation in Gaza is deteriorating.
The advisers highlighted Israel's decision on March 2 to halt the entry of humanitarian aid into the region, which has compounded the already challenging conditions for residents.
Humanitarian organizations, along with the UN and various member states, have condemned this suspension, warning that prolonged delays in aid delivery could lead to starvation and increased suffering among Gaza's civilians.
The UN advisers reiterated the necessity for a comprehensive political solution to the ongoing conflict.
'In line with the prevention of genocide and the responsibility to protect frameworks, we urge all parties to prioritize the protection of civilians and take immediate steps to deescalate tensions, prevent further loss of life, and engage in a solid political solution,' they stated.
Furthermore, the advisers echoed the UN Secretary-General's expressions of 'profound shock' regarding recent events, stressing the urgent need for respect for the ceasefire, restoration of unimpeded humanitarian access, and the unconditional release of all remaining hostages.
The recent airstrikes mark the most significant military action in Gaza since a ceasefire was established two months prior.
The conflict has reportedly resulted in hundreds of fatalities and numerous injuries among the civilian population.
In a joint statement, Gamba and Bleeker emphasized the critical need for all parties to focus on civilian protection and de-escalate tensions, in order to prevent further loss of life.
Alongside the military violence, the humanitarian situation in Gaza is deteriorating.
The advisers highlighted Israel's decision on March 2 to halt the entry of humanitarian aid into the region, which has compounded the already challenging conditions for residents.
Humanitarian organizations, along with the UN and various member states, have condemned this suspension, warning that prolonged delays in aid delivery could lead to starvation and increased suffering among Gaza's civilians.
The UN advisers reiterated the necessity for a comprehensive political solution to the ongoing conflict.
'In line with the prevention of genocide and the responsibility to protect frameworks, we urge all parties to prioritize the protection of civilians and take immediate steps to deescalate tensions, prevent further loss of life, and engage in a solid political solution,' they stated.
Furthermore, the advisers echoed the UN Secretary-General's expressions of 'profound shock' regarding recent events, stressing the urgent need for respect for the ceasefire, restoration of unimpeded humanitarian access, and the unconditional release of all remaining hostages.
