Association for Defending Victims of Terrorism – The UN Special Adviser on the Prevention of Genocide expressed profound horror at the ongoing situation in the Middle East, reiterating the call for a humanitarian ceasefire and protection of civilians.
Alice Wairimu Nderitu also underscored the need to intensify diplomatic efforts to bring the crisis to an end.
“Civilians should never pay the price of a conflict for which they bear no responsibility,” she said in a statement.
“Their most basic rights must be protected and preserved, and their humanitarian needs must be met,” she added.
In the ensuing military operation by Israel in the Gaza Strip, at least 27,840 Palestinians have been killed with more than 67,300 injured, according to the local health authority. Over 1.7 million Gazans have been displaced, and the enclave has suffered massive destruction of houses, schools, hospitals and other vital infrastructure.
The Special Adviser also called on all relevant actors to strengthen their resolve to find an end to the conflict.
This requires first and foremost ensuring the protection of civilians and civilian infrastructure in accordance with international law, she said.
