The UN human rights chief raised concerns on Israel’s actions in northern Gaza, warning they could amount to “atrocity crimes and crimes against humanity.” Volker Turk described the situation as the darkest moment of the conflict and urged world leaders to intervene.
He highlighted the continuous bombing in North Gaza, with the Israeli military displacing thousands without a safe way to leave. Reports of families being separated, detentions, and shootings of fleeing individuals have surfaced, painting a grim picture of the region.
Turk stressed the urgent need for aid in the area, as restrictions have left many facing starvation. With over 150,000 people dead, wounded, or missing, he fears a dramatic rise in casualties due to the ongoing intense Israeli operation.
The high commissioner called on world leaders to uphold international humanitarian law and protect civilians in the face of the devastating offensive. Despite a UN resolution for a cease-fire, the Israeli onslaught has resulted in thousands of casualties and widespread displacement in Gaza.
As Israel faces a genocide case at the International Court of Justice, urgent action is needed to prevent further atrocities and protect the vulnerable population in Gaza.