UN Rights Chief Urges Immediate Ceasefire and Accountability Amid Escalating Gaza Crisis
In an emergency session addressing the deteriorating situation in the Occupied Palestinian Territory, UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk expressed grave concern over what he described as “catastrophic suffering” in Gaza. Speaking to the UN Security Council, he warned that the temporary relief from a previous ceasefire had collapsed, exacerbating civilian hardship.
Mounting Civilian Casualties
Türk reported that, according to Gaza’s health authorities, Israeli military operations have killed over 1,200 Palestinians—including at least 320 children—since March 1. The casualty count continues to rise amidst ongoing bombardments, with more than half of Gaza now under evacuation orders or designated as no-go zones. The commissioner emphasized that there is currently no safe place for civilians in the enclave.
Call for Independent Investigation into Attacks on Medical Workers
Türk condemned the killings of medical and humanitarian personnel, calling for an independent, prompt, and thorough investigation. “Those responsible for violations of international law must be held accountable,” he stated. He also reiterated concerns over the well-being of Israeli hostages still held in Gaza and condemned the continued launching of indiscriminate rockets into Israel by Hamas and other armed groups, highlighting breaches of international humanitarian law on all sides.
Humanitarian Aid Blocked
Türk condemned Israel’s complete blockade on humanitarian aid into Gaza, imposed over a month ago, which is preventing the entry of essential items such as food, water, medicine, fuel, and electricity. He stated, “The blockade and siege imposed on Gaza amount to collective punishment and may also amount to the use of starvation as a method of war.”
He also voiced alarm over incendiary rhetoric from senior Israeli officials advocating the annexation and division of territory and the relocation of Palestinians outside Gaza—actions that, he said, raise serious concerns about potential international crimes and violate the core principles of international law, particularly the prohibition on acquisition of territory by force.
Violence Escalates in the West Bank
The UN rights chief described the situation in the West Bank, including East Jerusalem, as “extremely alarming.” Israeli military actions have led to the deaths of hundreds, the destruction of refugee camps, and the displacement of over 40,000 Palestinians. Illegal settlement expansion continues, with some Israeli officials openly pushing for sovereignty over occupied territories.
Türk called for an immediate restoration of the ceasefire and unrestricted humanitarian access across Gaza. “Nothing can justify the horrific attacks committed against Israeli communities on 7 October 2023. And nothing can justify the collective punishment of the Palestinian people,” he stated.
High Risk of Atrocity Crimes
Citing figures from the Palestinian Ministry of Health, Türk said that more than 50,400 Palestinians have been killed and over 114,000 injured since the onset of the war. He warned of a “high and increasing risk” of atrocity crimes and reminded Member States of their obligations under the Geneva Conventions to act when serious violations of international humanitarian law occur.
“I urge all those with influence to ensure the protection of civilians as a matter of absolute priority,” he said.
No Military Solution, Only Political Path Forward
Türk concluded by emphasizing the need for full accountability for all violations, the immediate and unconditional release of all hostages, and an end to arbitrary detentions. He urged Israel to refrain from any actions that could amount to the forcible transfer of Gaza’s population.
Reflecting on the past 18 months of violence, the High Commissioner underscored that a military solution is not viable. “The only way forward is a political settlement,” he said, “based on two states living side by side in equal dignity and rights, consistent with UN resolutions and international law.”
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