Statement by Principals of the Inter-Agency Standing Committee, on the situation in Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territory 5th November 2023

The Principals of the Inter-Agency Standing Committee (IASC), the longest-standing and highest-level humanitarian coordination forum of the United Nations system, have issued an incisive statement on the situation in Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territory. 

The statement asks for an immediate humanitarian ceasefire, pledging the parties to respect all their obligations under international humanitarian and human rights law, and provides important data regarding the current war situation. 

The Principals highlight some shocking statistics:2.2 million Palestinians are without food, water, medicine, electricity and fuel and The Israeli Ministry of Health has identified 9.500 deaths, from which 3,900 children and over 2,400 women, as well as over 23,000 injured people in need of treatment. 

The statement also emphasizes one of the most shocking data in UN history. The UN has seen the highest number of UN fatalities ever recorded in a single conflict: 88 UNRWA workers. 

The Principles renewed their call for the prompt and unconditional release of all civilians held hostage and asked for more aid to enter Gaza, to reach all the people in need.

The United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) fully supports the statement.

Last update

23/10/2023