UN officials have issued urgent warnings about the devastating toll of Israel’s military offensive in northern Gaza, with civilians caught in a spiral of violence, displacement, and starvation. 🚨 "We condemn this deadly escalation," said UN spokesperson Stephane Dujarric, highlighting the 64,000+ lives lost since October 2023 and the dire humanitarian crisis unfolding.
Humanitarian Catastrophe Unfolds
Over the weekend, heavy strikes forced thousands to flee Gaza City via Al Rashid Road—the sole escape route south—amid reports of 10 UN facilities hit, including schools and clinics sheltering displaced families. Philippe Lazzarini of the UN Relief Agency warned: "Exhausted civilians are being displaced again and again." 🏚️
Displacement and Desperation
The World Food Program says forced movement is draining families’ resources, while Gaza’s health authorities report 425 deaths from malnutrition, including 140+ children. Israel maintains its offensive targets Hamas and claims civilians were warned to evacuate. But the UN and global leaders argue conditions in the designated "safe zone" are "dire," with food shortages and overcrowding. 🍞⚡
Francesca Albanese, the UN’s Palestinian rights expert, accused Israel of making Gaza City "unlivable," a claim Israel’s UN mission rejected. Meanwhile, the death toll continues to rise, underscoring what the UN calls a "reckless disregard for civilian life." 💔
