Risk of famine in Gaza ‘alarming’: Trkiye’s UN envoy

WASHINGTON: Trkiye's permanent representative to the UN warned Tuesday of a worsening humanitarian situation in the Gaza Strip. Sedat Onal told a meeting of the UN Security Council on the maintenance of international peace and security that "2.2 million people in Gaza live in a state of crisis under relentless bombardment, without sufficient humanitarian aid.' "On top of that, some donors have suspended funding to UNRWA, the backbone of the humanitarian response in Gaza. The risk of famine in Gaza is alarming," he said. In the fifth month of the conflict, Onal said the Council is still unable to stop the manmade catastrophe. "As we speak, a new episode of this tragedy is underway in Rafah in southern Gaza, in spite of the warnings of the international community. The council needs to take heed of the global outcry on Gaza," he added, stressing the expectation from the Council is clear to ensure an immediate cease-fire, unhindered humanitarian assistance and to prevent forced displacement of people. "Trkiy e will continue to be actively engaged in all international efforts towards achieving peace, combating climate change and alleviating global food insecurity," Onal said. Source: Palestine news and Information Agency – WAFA