Stéphane Dujarric, spokesperson for the UN, confirmed that Secretary-General Antonio Guterres made the challenging decision to “minimize the United Nations presence in Gaza, despite the surge in humanitarian needs and increasing concerns for civilian safety.”

Despite the relocation of operations, Dujarric stated that the UN’s commitment to providing aid remains unchanged. “We are not abandoning Gaza. Let me be clear, the United Nations is not abandoning Gaza,” he declared, highlighting the pressing need for international involvement.

The situation in Gaza has taken a significant turn for the worse following a week of intense Israeli military actions, resulting in the deaths of hundreds of Palestinians. The Gaza Health Ministry reported that over 60 people, including women and children, were killed in just the past 24 hours. The conflict has now led to more than 50,000 deaths in the 17 months of war.

Dujarric demanded an immediate ceasefire, urging all parties to uphold international law. “The safety of civilians must be respected and protected. The supply of life-saving aid must be allowed. Hostages must be released without delay and without conditions,” he emphasized.

Efforts to restore a ceasefire continue on the diplomatic front. Sources have confirmed that Egypt has presented a new initiative aimed at stopping the violence and restarting negotiations. However, the humanitarian emergency in Gaza remains severe, as the conflict shows no signs of ending.