In a recent briefing, the head of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) reported alarming conditions in Gaza, where staff members, along with doctors and humanitarian workers, are suffering from severe hunger and fatigue. Philippe Lazzarini emphasized that the entire community is affected, noting that caretakers, medical professionals, and journalists are all struggling to meet their basic needs.
Lazzarini relayed that numerous emergency messages have poured in from his agency’s staff, detailing the dire state of affairs in the territory, especially as the conflict between Israel and Hamas escalated that began in October 2023. He expressed concern that many professionals responsible for reporting on the situation or providing support to those in need are now collapsing on the job due to malnutrition.
Furthermore, he criticized the aid distribution initiative led by the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation, which has been active since late May after Israel eased an eleven-week blockade on supplies into Gaza. Lazzarini described this program as a "sadistic death trap," claiming that it puts individuals at risk from random sniper fire as they attempt to access vital supplies.
5 Comments
Coccinella
Aid is necessary, but it should not come at the cost of safety. The criticism of the aid distribution is valid.
Muchacho
The focus should be on how to improve conditions, not simply criticize the means of aid. This sounds like virtue signaling.
ZmeeLove
Urgent action is necessary. We can’t turn a blind eye to the realities facing Gaza residents and humanitarian workers.
Bermudez
Surely Lazzarini has an agenda. His perspective needs verification as it may not represent the whole picture.
Africa
Kudos to Lazzarini for speaking out! The suffering in Gaza can't be ignored any longer.