Philippe Lazzarini, the Commissioner-General of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA), stated that “the smell of death is everywhere, bodies are left on streets or under rubble” in Gaza. Lazzarini called for a ceasefire, even if for a few hours, to provide safe humanitarian access.

Israel’s attacks on Gaza have continued since October 7th.

UNRWA Commissioner-General Philippe Lazzarini shared his concerns about the situation in Gaza, where Israel’s atrocities persist.

Lazzarini noted, “As Israel’s relentless bombardments have been ongoing for about 3 weeks, the death toll is increasing. Our staff report difficulties in finding food, water, or medical care. The smell of death is everywhere, bodies are left on streets or under rubble.”

“THEY ARE WAITING FOR DEATH”

Lazzarini mentioned the refusal to clean up bodies or provide humanitarian aid, stating that “people in northern Gaza are just waiting for death. They feel abandoned, hopeless, and alone. They live every second in fear of death.” A CALL FOR A CEASEFIRE, EVEN IF BRIEF

Highlighting that since the beginning of the attacks, some UNRWA personnel have remained in the north and managed to provide assistance to displaced Palestinians, despite the intense bombings and attacks on buildings, Lazzarini emphasized that they kept some shelters open.

The Secretary-General called for a ceasefire, even if brief, to ensure safe humanitarian passage for families wanting to leave the area and reach safer locations. They stated, “This is the minimum measure that should be taken to save the lives of civilians who have no connection to the conflict.”