United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres has called for the immediate restoration of humanitarian aid to Gaza, emphasizing that such assistance is non-negotiable. His remarks came during a Security Council briefing on Tuesday, where he highlighted the dire conditions faced by Gaza’s civilian population due to ongoing blockades and restrictions.
Humanitarian Crisis Intensifies
Since March 2, 2025, Israel has imposed a comprehensive siege on Gaza, halting the delivery of essential supplies including food, fuel, medicine, and commercial goods. This blockade has led to widespread hunger, with food prices soaring—onions and potatoes have increased by over 1,000%—and a severe lack of cooking fuel, forcing residents to burn waste to prepare meals. Community kitchens and bakeries operated by the World Food Program have ceased operations, leaving approximately 420,000 people without meals .
The humanitarian situation is further exacerbated by displacement, with 90% of Gaza’s population uprooted and over 52,000 deaths reported, predominantly among women and children. Relief agencies warn of rising malnutrition, particularly among children, and the United Nations has labeled the crisis as potentially the worst yet .
UN’s Call for Unrestricted Aid Access
Secretary-General Guterres stressed that the entry of humanitarian assistance must be restored immediately. He called for the safety of UN personnel and humanitarian partners to be guaranteed and for UN agencies to operate in full respect of humanitarian principles: humanity, impartiality, neutrality, and independence .
Despite these appeals, the United States has argued before the International Court of Justice that Israel is not legally obligated to cooperate with the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA), which has been banned from operating in Gaza. The U.S. cited Israel’s security concerns and allegations of UNRWA staff involvement with Hamas, though limited substantiated evidence has been provided .
Humanitarian Ceasefire Urged
The UN Secretary-General reiterated his call for an immediate humanitarian ceasefire to facilitate the delivery of aid, ensure the safety of civilians, and create conditions for a lasting peace. He emphasized that success will be measured in lives saved, suffering alleviated, and dignity restored .
As the international community watches, the imperative remains clear: the people of Gaza must not be forgotten, and the delivery of humanitarian aid must be prioritized to alleviate the unfolding catastrophe.
