At dawn on Thursday, a blast ripped through Gaza’s Holy Family Church—a rare haven for families escaping relentless shelling. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres swiftly condemned the strike, calling it a blatant violation of humanitarian principles.
“Attacks on places of worship are unacceptable. People seeking shelter must be respected and protected, not hit by strikes,” emphasized Stephanie Tremblay, associate spokesperson for the UN chief.
Guterres urged an immediate ceasefire and the unconditional release of all hostages, stressing that humanitarian corridors must remain open to avert further tragedy. His warning comes as Gaza faces a deepening crisis:
- Displacement surges: More than 11,600 people uprooted between July 8 and 15, pushing total displacement since the March ceasefire collapse above 737,000—about 35% of Gaza’s population.
- Housing wipeout: Most buildings are flattened or unlivable, forcing families to sleep under the open sky.
- Water crisis: With infrastructure in ruins and a ban on Mediterranean access, many hesitate to bathe amid health risks.
- Fuel famine: Critical services stalled for 135 days until a small shipment of benzene powered ambulances—and limited diesel kept hospitals marginally alive.
Humanitarian agencies warn that only a steady flow of fuel and shelter materials, coupled with full protection for civilians, can prevent a deeper catastrophe. As the conflict stretches into its 21st month, the UN chief’s message is clear: the world cannot stand by while human lives hang in the balance.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
