United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights: demands greater protection for civilians in conflict zones

The UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Türk drew attention on various global crises and demanded greater compliance with international law, particularly to protect the rights of civilians trapped in areas of conflict

He reiterated his concern regarding the current situation in Gaza, where Palestinians have been confined to just 30 percent of the territory and face severe shortages of food and essential services. He strongly urged the incoming Israeli government to uphold international humanitarian law provisions. Rejecting bias accusations against the United Nations, he clarified that the organisation monitors all parties impartially, has repeatedly denounced the October 7th attacks and is deeply concerned over reports of extrajudicial executions carried out by Hamas militants. Against the background of the latest elections in Israel, he maintained that unhindered monitoring activities in Gaza, West Bank, Lebanon and Syria continue to be crucial for decision making and thorough information.

Concerning  Europe, the High Commissioner highlighted a worrying surge in drone attacks against Ukrainian civilians, warning that casualties could reach their highest levels since 2022. Lamenting a widespread lack of global empathy for these civilians, Türk demanded that human rights protections be placed at the center of all ceasefire and peace negotiations.

Finally, the High Commissioner for Human Rights addressed the question of the potential commission in the context of Houthi attacks on Saudi airports and other civilian infrastructure. He eventually called for the immediate and unconditional release of 71 UN workers currently detained by the Houthis, citing reports of highly worrying conditions of detention.