Statement by Martin Griffiths, Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs and Emergency Relief Coordinator, about the situation in Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territory

The scale and speed of what’s unfolding in the Occupied Palestinian Territory and Israel is bone-chilling.

Hundreds of Israelis have been killed and thousands have been injured. Scores are being held captive, facing appalling threats to their lives. Thousands of indiscriminate rockets have been launched into Israel.

In densely populated Gaza, hundreds of Palestinians have been killed and thousands have been injured in intense bombing. Homes, health centers and schools sheltering displaced families have been hit. The whole city is now under a siege order. 

My message to all sides is unequivocal: The laws of war must be upheld.

Those held captive must be treated humanely. Hostages must be released without delay. 

Throughout hostilities, civilians and civilian infrastructure must be protected. Civilians must be allowed to leave for safer areas.

And humanitarian relief and vital services and supplies to Gaza must not be blocked. 

The whole region is at a tipping point.

The violence must stop.

New York, 10 October 2023