By Moaz Nasir
TWA
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In the midst of ongoing hostilities in Gaza, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has called on European leaders to adhere to a uniform set of principles for both Ukraine and Gaza, emphasizing the need for an equitable approach.
Addressing the media next to EU Council President Charles Michel in Brussels, Guterres emphasized, “The fundamental tenet of international humanitarian law is the safeguarding of civilian lives.” He implored European leaders to stand together in their adherence to the principles of the United Nations Charter.
The conflict in Gaza has resulted in approximately 32,000 Palestinian fatalities since October 7, as reported by the Gaza health ministry. The ministry also reports that the Israeli offensive has led to injuries of at least 74,188 Palestinians. In the latest 24-hour period, there have been 65 Palestinian deaths and 92 injuries.
Amidst concerns of an impending famine in the Israeli-occupied Palestinian territories, UN Secretary-General António Guterres has highlighted the urgency of uninterrupted aid delivery to Gaza and other affected areas.
Concurrently, a meeting in Cyprus convened representatives from 36 countries and UN agencies to strategize on accelerating aid to Palestinians in Gaza through a maritime route initiated recently. The assembly included participation from Sigrid Kaag, the UN’s senior humanitarian and reconstruction coordinator for Gaza, and Curtis Ried, the chief of staff of the US National Security Council.
Cyprus’ Foreign Minister Constantinos Kombos articulated the focus of the discussions: enhancing operational capacity for aid shipment, encompassing aspects of departure, transportation, and the methodology for receiving and distributing aid.
