The UN General Assembly is scheduled to vote on a resolution calling for a ceasefire in the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas. This comes as the World Health Organization (WHO) warns that the humanitarian situation in Gaza is rapidly deteriorating, calling it a “catastrophe.”
the World Health Organization (WHO) adopted a resolution calling for immediate and unimpeded access to vital humanitarian aid for the people of Gaza. This resolution represents the first time any United Nations agency has officially requested such action. About 18,000 Palestinians have been killed in Israeli bombardment since October 7.
The resolution expresses grave concern about the worsening humanitarian crisis in Gaza. The ongoing hostilities have caused widespread damage to infrastructure, including healthcare facilities. It emphasizes the critical need for essential supplies, such as medicines, food, and water.
The WHO specifically calls for:
- Immediate opening of a secure humanitarian aid corridor.
- Safe passage and protection of humanitarian aid workers.
- An immediate ceasefire.
The resolution highlights the dire health situation in Gaza, where hospitals are overwhelmed and essential medical supplies are running low. In addition, It warns that continued delays in delivering aid could lead to a humanitarian catastrophe.
When Will This Barbaric Movement End?
WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus expressed that while the resolution doesn’t resolve the crisis. But it serves as a platform for further action. He stressed the importance of a ceasefire for the restoration of peace and health. Moreover, he also urged Member States, particularly those with significant influence, to work urgently towards ending the conflict.
Fighting resumed after a brief pause, leading to increased calls for an end to hostilities. The UN General Assembly is expected to vote on a resolution for an immediate ceasefire. They will use Resolution 377 “Uniting for Peace” after the UNSC fails to act in the wake of the US veto. Resolution 377, adopted in 1950, empowers the General Assembly to intervene when the Security Council fails in its primary responsibility for maintaining international peace and security.
The WHO’s call for action has been echoed by various other international organizations. It includes the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) and several human rights groups. However, they all emphasize the urgency of providing humanitarian assistance to the people of Gaza and urge all parties involved in the conflict to facilitate the delivery of aid.
