UN Humanitarian Official: Humanitarian Situation in Gaza is 'Unsustainable'

Martin Griffiths, the UN Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs, stated on Saturday, October 14, that the humanitarian situation in Gaza has become 'unsustainable.' Griffiths noted that there is no electricity, water, or fuel in Gaza, and food supplies are 'dangerously' running out. He urged all powerful countries to use their influence to ensure respect for the laws of war and to prevent further escalation of tensions. The UN official added that the actions and rhetoric of Hamas militants and Israel in recent days have been 'extremely concerning and unacceptable.' He called for the protection of civilians and civilian infrastructure. The UN official further mentioned that families in Gaza were moving towards the south in crowded and damaged roads to find a safe place following Israel's evacuation order, while being bombed. He stated that even war has rules, and these rules must be adhered to at all times by all parties. Griffiths emphasized that civilians should be allowed to move to safer areas and that actions must be taken to save them whether they are displaced or remain in place. The UN Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs said that anyone who is captured should be treated humanely, and all hostages should be released. Griffiths added, 'Last week was a test for humanity, and humanity is declining.' Egyptian officials: The Rafah crossing is open only for sending humanitarian aid to Gaza; Palestinian civilians are fleeing south; Gaza is experiencing a 'bread shortage.' UNICEF called for access to humanitarian aid for Gaza residents. A shipment of medical supplies to support Gaza has arrived in Egypt. The deadline for Israel to evacuate northern Gaza is nearing; the International Federation for Human Rights has called for an 'immediate ceasefire.' Disclosure of classified documents; Hamas deliberately targeted elementary schools and a youth center.