UN Rights Chief Warns of “Horrifying” Suffering in Gaza, Urges Global Pressure

Photo- AP

Geneva — The United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Türk, delivered one of his strongest addresses yet at the opening of the Human Rights Council, describing the situation in Gaza as “horrifying, unconscionable suffering.” He called on governments worldwide to “wake up” and exert maximum pressure on both Israel and Hamas to halt the violence and prevent further devastation.

Türk emphasized that Israel's current “means and methods of warfare” are inflicting widespread civilian suffering, with over 55,300 Palestinians killed, according to Gaza’s Health Ministry. Women and children make up most victims. He sharply condemned the severe disruption to healthcare, food, and water supplies, warning that conditions for civilians resemble a humanitarian catastrophe.

He also urged both sides to ensure unimpeded humanitarian access, condemning what he described as the misuse of aid for strategic gain. Recent reports note at least 40 Palestinians were killed and over 200 injured near food distribution sites—victims often caught in crossfire or facing undue restrictions. 

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“These civilian casualties are not accidental—they reflect conflict strategies that must end now,” Türk stressed. “All those with influence must exert maximum pressure on Israel and Hamas, to put an end to this unbearable suffering.” He cautioned that unchecked violence will lead to long-term generational trauma and erosion of international law. 

His broader address also covered other humanitarian crises—in Sudan, Ukraine, and more—but it was his remarks on Gaza that drew urgent attention. He urged states to urgently negotiate ceasefires, reinstate UN‑facilitated aid corridors, and release detained hostages.

UN reports echo his warnings. Agencies highlight a sharp decline in mass meal distribution—from over one million daily to just 250,000—and a rapidly escalating famine risk. International medical aid groups describe Gaza as “hell on earth,” pressed by collapsing infrastructure and collapsing health systems.

Discussion at the Council revealed growing concern:

• Humanitarian leaders urged armed UN protection for aid convoys.

• NGOs raised concerns that the siege amounted to starvation as a weapon, violating international law.

• European and Western officials warned against arms transfers to Israel and discussed sanctions. 

Despite condemnation, meaningful action has lagged. EU members expressed frustration, accusing supporters of Israel of undermining accountability. The U.S. notably restricted its involvement in formal Council proceedings.

Türk’s appeal was framed as a global moral imperative: the breakdown in civilian protections erodes the credibility of the rules-based order. He concluded with a call to world leaders: immediate pressure is required—for ceasefire, aid access, and civilian protection—or face irreversible humanitarian collapse in Gaza.