Israel has repeatedly warned of an operation against Hamas in the southern Gazan city of Rafah, where around a million displaced people are crowded together, having fled months of Israeli bombardments triggered by Hamas fighters’ deadly cross-border attack on Oct. 7.
An Israeli incursion in Rafah would put the lives of hundreds of thousands of Gazans at risk and be a huge blow to the aid operations of the entire enclave, the UN humanitarian office said on Friday, as the World Health Organization announced contingency plans for an incursion.
Israel has repeatedly warned of an operation against Hamas in Rafah. Around a million displaced people are crowded there.
“It could be a slaughter of civilians and an incredible blow to the humanitarian operation in the entire strip because it is run primarily out of Rafah,” said Jens Laerke, spokesperson for the UN humanitarian office (OCHA), at a Geneva press briefing.
Israel has said it will work to ensure the safe evacuation of civilians from Rafah.
Aid operations in Rafah include medical clinics, warehouses stocked with humanitarian supplies, food distribution points and 50 centres for acutely malnourished children, Laerke said.
In response, UN Agencies Prepare contingency plans for potential scenarios. Notably, strategic assessments highlight vulnerable populations at risk. Furthermore, coordination with local authorities enhances response capabilities.
As tensions persist, UN Agencies Prepare for worst-case scenarios. However, diplomatic efforts continue to seek peaceful resolutions. Additionally, international solidarity strengthens humanitarian responses in crisis zones. Hence, concerted efforts aim to avert humanitarian catastrophes. Moreover, sustained engagement remains crucial for long-term stability and conflict prevention.
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