As Death Toll Soars, HI Urges Ceasefire and Unhindered Aid Access in Gaza

Following the resumption of hostilities and the halt in Gaza, below is a statement by Florence Daunis, HI International Operations Director.

In the past few days, hundreds of Palestinians have been killed in new, intensified Israeli military operations in Gaza. Displaced families, often sheltering in tent camps, have been targeted by airstrikes, leading to mass casualties and catastrophic scenes at overwhelmed hospitals. Our staff are at imminent risk of being displaced again, and our operations are being reduced.  

Humanitarian access continues to be blocked. Israel is still preventing the entry of adequate essential supplies such as food, fuel, and medical aid. Hospitals are systematically targeted and rendered inoperative. The United Nations has warned that nearly a quarter of Gaza's population is at risk of famine.  

The total death toll reported by the Ministry of Health in Gaza has reached at least 53,300, with over 121,000 injured.  

We demand an immediate and permanent ceasefire, unconditional release of hostages, lifting of aid restrictions, and the protection of civilians.