The United Nations has issued an urgent appeal for the immediate and unrestricted opening of all border crossings into the Gaza Strip, citing a deepening humanitarian catastrophe as civilians face acute shortages of food, water, and medical supplies.
In a statement released Tuesday, UN Secretary-General António Guterres called on all parties to prioritize humanitarian obligations and facilitate the flow of life-saving aid to the besieged enclave. “The situation in Gaza is dire,” Guterres said. “Civilians are bearing the brunt of the conflict, and we must ensure that humanitarian assistance reaches those in need without delay or obstruction.”
The call comes amid ongoing hostilities between Israeli forces and Palestinian militant groups, which have led to the partial or complete closure of key border crossings, including Kerem Shalom and Rafah. Aid convoys have been stalled for days, with international relief agencies warning of an impending collapse of basic services.
UN humanitarian chief Martin Griffiths described the blockade as “strangling” Gaza’s civilian population. “Hospitals are overwhelmed, water is scarce, and families are going hungry,” he said. “Access is not a political issue—it’s a lifeline.”
The World Health Organization (WHO) and the World Food Programme (WFP) echoed the urgency of the UN’s call, urging both Israel and Egypt to cooperate fully in opening corridors for humanitarian aid under international law.
Israel has defended the closures as necessary security measures, citing concerns over weapons smuggling and militant infiltration. However, human rights groups argue that the collective impact on Gaza’s 2.3 million residents amounts to disproportionate punishment and a breach of international humanitarian law.
International pressure is mounting, with the European Union and several Arab states urging immediate action to avert further civilian suffering. The UN Security Council is expected to hold an emergency session later this week to address the worsening crisis.
As the conflict drags on, aid agencies warn that time is running out. “The people of Gaza cannot wait,” Guterres said. “We need immediate, unhindered access—now.”
