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The fires of conflicts are raging the Occupied Palestinian Territory, including Gaza, and in Lebanon. And the heat is being felt in Syria too. Spiralling escalation is already having a major impact on Syria and Syrian civilians.

During his briefing, the Special Envoy emphasized the intensifying military escalation in the Middle East, including Yemen, where UN personnel are increasingly at risk, and Ansar Allah continues arbitrary detentions. He called for regional de-escalation to prevent further escalation. The Envoy stressed that recent attacks on international shipping and retaliatory strikes are dragging Yemen deeper into conflict, but he reaffirmed that peace is still achievable with sustained international support and the immediate release of those detained.

Statement by UN Special Coordinator for the Middle East Peace Process, Tor Wennesland, on the Situation in Gaza

Jerusalem, 20 October 2024

“The nightmare in Gaza is intensifying. Horrifying scenes are unfolding in the northern Strip amidst conflict, relentless Israeli strikes and an ever-worsening humanitarian crisis.

In Beit Lahia last night, dozens were reportedly killed in Israeli airstrikes. This follows weeks of intensified operations resulting in scores of civilian fatalities and near total lack of humanitarian aid reaching populations in the north.

Nowhere is safe in Gaza.

I condemn the continuing attacks on civilians. This war must end, the hostages held by Hamas must be freed, the displacement of Palestinians must cease, and civilians must be protected wherever they are. Humanitarian aid must be delivered unimpeded.

The path ahead will require courage, political will and renewed dialogue. We owe it to the families suffering in Gaza and Israel. The war must stop now.”

[ENDS]