UN High Commissioner Warns of Imminent Famine in Gaza, Calls for Action

Geneva, The United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Türk, has issued a stern warning about the imminent risk of famine in Gaza, stating that the crisis is “human-made” and entirely preventable.

According to Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights, Türk emphasized the grave situation in Gaza, attributing the looming famine to Israel’s extensive restrictions on humanitarian aid and commercial goods, displacement of the population, and destruction of vital civilian infrastructure. The Commissioner highlighted that the dire conditions have forced residents to resort to dangerous coping strategies, with law and order breaking down as desperation grows. Reports indicate that children are being sent on perilous journeys in search of food and support, further exacerbating the humanitarian crisis.

The statement pointed out that Israel’s 16-year blockade has severely impacted the human rights of Gaza’s civilian population, devastating the local economy and fostering a dependency on aid. Türk noted the possibility that Israel’s actions, including the restrictions on aid entry and conduct of hostilities, could be construed as using starvation as a method of warfare, a recognized war crime.

The High Commissioner underscored Israel’s obligations as the occupying power to ensure the provision of food and medical care to meet the population’s needs and to facilitate the work of humanitarian organizations. He called for immediate action to allow the unimpeded entry and distribution of humanitarian assistance and commercial goods to prevent famine. Türk also stressed the importance of restoring essential services, including food, water, electricity, and fuel supplies, and called for an immediate ceasefire and the unconditional release of Israeli hostages held in Gaza.

The UN High Commissioner’s message is a clear call to action, urging those with influence to demand that Israel fulfill its responsibilities under international human rights law to avert a humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza.