UN Senior Official Warns Fragile Gaza Ceasefire Threatened by Israel

JAKARTA - Senior United Nations (UN) officials warned on Wednesday that a fragile ceasefire in the Gaza Strip, Palestine, remained under threat due to Israeli attacks and unilateral Israeli measures in the occupied West Bank, which increased tensions and deepened Palestinian suffering.

"In recent weeks, the Israeli military has intensified its attacks across Gaza, hitting densely populated areas and killing dozens of Palestinians," said the Deputy Secretary-General of the United Nations for Political and Peacebuilding Affairs, Rosemary DiCarlo, during a high-level session of the Security Council, adding that "Gaza is still not at peace," as quoted by Anadolu (19/2).

Describing the moment as "a pivotal one," DiCarlo said that "after years of devastating conflict and tremendous human suffering, there is an opportunity, which can allow the region to move in a different direction. But that opportunity is not guaranteed and will not last forever."

In this regard, he called for urgent steps to strengthen the ceasefire and increase humanitarian assistance.

"Our collective efforts must now strengthen the ceasefire in Gaza and alleviate the suffering of the population," DiCarlo said, noting the need for "concrete progress towards stabilization and recovery, in accordance with international law, to lay the foundation for lasting peace."

Highlighting the Peace Council meeting in Washington, DC planned for today, DiCarlo said it was an "important step" to implement the second phase of the ceasefire and advance the political track towards a two-state solution.

"In parallel, the entry of aid into Gaza must be significantly increased. This is essential for inclusive and Palestinian-led recovery and reconstruction," he added.

Although access to aid has improved since last October, DiCarlo warned conditions remain dire.

"However, most of the residents of Gaza are still displaced and continue to experience very difficult living conditions," he said.

"Humanitarian operations in Gaza continue amid heavy constraints. The increased entry of materials for housing, educational supplies, and medical equipment, among other items, is urgently needed," DiCarlo said.