UN Rights Chief condemns Israeli move to suspend humanitarian groups in Gaza

New York: The UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Turk, has strongly criticised Israel s decision to suspend the work of a number of humanit...

New York: The UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Turk, has strongly criticised Israel's decision to suspend the work of a number of humanitarian organisations, calling the move shameful and part of a pattern of unlawful restrictions on aid.

In a statement issued in New York on Wednesday, Turk said the decision was the latest in a series of measures limiting humanitarian access, including Israel's ban on the UN agency for Palestinian refugees, UNRWA, and attacks on Palestinian non-governmental organisations.

He said these actions were taking place amid broader difficulties faced by the United Nations and other aid agencies in reaching people in need.

Turk urged all countries, particularly those with influence, to take urgent steps and insist that Israel immediately allow humanitarian assistance to enter Gaza without obstruction. He warned that what he described as arbitrary suspensions were worsening conditions for Gaza's population, who he said were already living in intolerable circumstances.

He also reminded Israel of its obligations under international law to ensure the provision of essential supplies for daily life in Gaza, including facilitating access for humanitarian aid.