UN human rights office 'distressed' as UNRWA operations in Gaza at risk

By Beyza Binnur Donmez

GENEVA (AA) - The UN human rights office on Wednesday said it is "extremely distressed" that operations of the UN agency for Palestinian refugees in the Gaza Strip could grind to a halt in a few hours if fuel shipments are not allowed into the blockaded territory.

"We’re extremely distressed that critical UNRWA operations in Gaza are at risk due to critical fuel shortages," the office said on X.

"Fuel aid must be permitted to operate generators essential for hospitals, sanitation, water treatment, food and UN work in helping civilians and protecting human rights across Gaza," it added.

The UNWRA on Tuesday warned it will be forced to halt operations Wednesday night "if we do not get fuel urgently."

Israel launched a relentless bombardment campaign on the Gaza Strip following a cross-border attack by Hamas into Israeli territory on Oct. 7.

Due to a complete siege, Gaza’s 2.3 million people have been running out of food, water, medicines and fuel, and aid convoys allowed into Gaza have carried only a fraction of what is needed.

UN chief Antonio Guterres said the humanitarian relief finally getting into Gaza "is a drop of aid in an ocean of need."

"The people of Gaza need continuous aid delivery at a level that corresponds to the enormous needs. It must be delivered without restrictions," Guterres said on X.