:<br><br>"UNRWA Chief Renews Call for Probe into Attacks on Humanitarians in Gaza

**UNRWA Chief Renews Call for Probe into Attacks on Humanitarians in Gaza**

The humanitarian crisis in Gaza continues to worsen, with UNRWA Commissioner-General Philippe Lazzarini renewing his call for independent investigations into the "systematic disregard" for humanitarian workers and premises. In a statement posted on social media, Commissioner-General Lazzarini highlighted the alarming statistics: 258 UNRWA staff have been killed, nearly 650 incidents against UNRWA buildings and facilities recorded, and at least 745 people killed in its shelters while seeking UN protection.

**Urgent Need for Accountability**

Commissioner-General Lazzarini emphasized that it is essential to hold accountable those responsible for these attacks. He reiterated his call for independent investigations into the systematic disregard for the protection of humanitarian workers, premises, and operations. "This cannot become the new standard and impunity cannot become the new norm," he stressed.

**Respect for International Humanitarian Law**

The UNRWA chief reminded us that international humanitarian law is clear: humanitarians and civilian infrastructure – including hospitals and UN buildings – are not a target, hostage taking is prohibited, and civilians must be assisted and protected at all times. He urged the prompt release of all detained humanitarian staff and hostages, facilitation of humanitarian access to reach people in need, and lifting of the siege on Gaza to bring in much-needed humanitarian supplies.

**OCHA Reports: Ongoing Challenges**

The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) reported on the situation in Gaza. Heavy rainfall exacerbated the plight of displaced families along Gaza's shoreline, particularly in Khan Younis, with dozens of tents reportedly flooded or damaged. OCHA also highlighted the urgent need for 27 desludging trucks to support water and sanitation efforts.

**Barriers to Aid Entry**

The process to bring in critical items to Gaza remains challenging due to insecurity, active fighting, and breakdowns in public order and safety. Of particular concern is the insufficient amount of fuel needed for essential services, with aid partners reporting a stock of less than 25,000 liters – enough for only one day's requirements.

**Humanitarian Efforts Continue**

Despite these challenges, humanitarian partners continue to operate bakeries and distribute emergency flour. The four bakeries supported by the UN World Food Programme (WFP) are operating at full capacity, with fuel received earlier this week allowing them to continue for six days. Emergency flour distribution also continues in the south of Gaza, having reached around 1.2 million people – covering 70% of the population.

**Escalating Violence in the West Bank**

Turning to the West Bank, OCHA reported that settler-related incidents have increased dramatically, with nearly 4 incidents per day. Roughly 1,400 such incidents have resulted in Palestinian casualties, damage to property, or both. This has forced around 560 Palestinians to leave their homes or communities due to settler violence and access restrictions.

**Conclusion**

The situation in Gaza and the West Bank is dire, with humanitarian workers and infrastructure under constant attack. It is essential that we prioritize independent investigations into these attacks and work towards creating a safe and stable environment for all. We must ensure that those responsible are held accountable, and that international humanitarian law is respected.

Edward Lance Arellano Lorilla

CEO / Co-Founder

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