"Gaza is running out of time" UN experts demand ceasefire to avert genocide

"Gaza is running out of time," UN experts warn, calling for a cease-fire to prevent genocide of Palestinians, following Gaza's repeated attacks by the Israeli military, prompting urgent calls for action to prevent further suffering and address the humanitarian catastrophe in the region.

On Oct. 31, 2023, Israeli airstrikes targeted the Jabalia refugee camp in northern Gaza, causing a high number of casualties and injuries.

The crisis in Gaza has led to a dire humanitarian situation, with the lack of basic necessities such as food, water, medicine and fuel. The absence of fuel and the disruption of water infrastructure have made it difficult for the population to access clean water.

More than 1.4 million people in Gaza are internally displaced and have sought refuge in 150 emergency shelters of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA).

UNRWA reports that more than 70 UN workers have lost their lives due to Israeli shelling in Gaza.

Concerns have been raised for the safety of UN and humanitarian workers, hospitals, schools and journalists in Gaza, who play a crucial role in providing essential services and reporting on the situation.

Experts call for immediate action and a ceasefire to address the urgent needs of the people of Gaza, including the release of all civilians held captive since Hamas militants' attack on Israeli communities on Oct. 7.

On Oct. 27, 2023, the UN General Assembly passed a resolution aimed at protecting civilians and meeting legal and humanitarian obligations, providing a framework for addressing the situation in Gaza.

Experts stress the importance of all parties to the conflict complying with their obligations under international humanitarian and human rights law. They stress that humanitarian and medical personnel and facilities are protected under international law and it is the duty of states to ensure their safety and security in times of war.