“The current situation in Gaza raises serious international concerns. The UN agency for Palestinian refugees recently sounded the alarm, calling the ongoing humanitarian crisis an “unprecedented catastrophe.” Israeli army in retaliation for a Hamas attack plunged Gaza into a state of unprecedented devastation and suffering.
In this context, Israel and the United States reached an agreement to restore water supplies to southern Gaza. However, preparations for an Israeli offensive in the Gaza Strip are also underway, raising fears of an intensification of hostilities and a worsening humanitarian crisis.
The international community is reacting to this critical situation. Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro announced the sending of 30 tons of humanitarian aid to the Palestinians, expressing his unconditional support for the Palestinian cause and the Palestinian Authority. He also called for an immediate ceasefire and the establishment of a humanitarian assistance corridor, while urging the international community to play a role as guarantor of international legality.
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres also expressed deep concern, warning that the Middle East was “on the brink of the abyss.” He called on Israel to allow humanitarian aid into Gaza, highlighting the lack of water, electricity and other essential supplies in the region. He also called for the immediate and unconditional release of hostages held by Hamas.
In this context, the head of the WHO, Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, called on Hamas to release the civilian hostages and condemned the indiscriminate attacks of the Palestinian Islamist movement against Israel. For its part, more than a thousand people demonstrated in Rio de Janeiro in support of Israel and against Hamas terrorism.
Beyond this escalation of violence, the blockade imposed by Israel prevents tens of thousands of Palestinians from fleeing to Egypt to escape the bombings. In Cairo, opinions are divided on welcoming refugees from the Gaza Strip, with some supporting their right to stay on their land, while others calling for open borders to help them escape the violence.
In this complex situation, it is essential that the international community becomes more involved in finding a peaceful and humanitarian solution to this crisis. The suffering endured by Palestinian and Israeli civilians must end, and concrete steps must be taken to address the immediate humanitarian needs in Gaza. We hope for a rapid restoration of peace and security in the region, so that people can finally live in dignity and stability.”