Volker Turk, the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, warned on Tuesday of “unacceptable death and suffering” in Gaza. Turk stated that the situation in the West Bank, including East Jerusalem, “is significantly deteriorating.” He added that as of June 15, 528 Palestinians, including 133 children, have been killed by Israeli security forces or settlers since October, with some cases raising “serious concerns of unlawful killings,” according to Reuters.
Turk reported a 72% increase in civilian deaths due to armed conflicts worldwide last year, expressing concern about the high percentage of women and children among the victims.
These remarks come as hospitals in Gaza report being overwhelmed, unable to provide beds for the wounded and sick amid severe overcrowding due to the ongoing Israeli war on Gaza. According to the Gaza Ministry of Health, most of the injured in the central and northern parts of the Strip are being placed in hospital corridors and yards due to the lack of beds.
The ministry also indicated that over 350,000 patients with chronic illnesses have been unable to receive treatment due to Israeli bombings that have destroyed most primary care centers. The Palestinian Ministry of Health has called for the urgent provision of field hospitals, as existing hospitals and medical centers cannot accommodate the large number of casualties from the conflict.
The recent escalation in Gaza began on October 7, 2023, with increased hostilities between Israel and Palestinian groups, primarily Hamas. This conflict has resulted in significant civilian casualties and widespread destruction of infrastructure in Gaza.
The situation in the West Bank, including East Jerusalem, has been marked by increased violence and tensions between Israeli settlers, security forces, and Palestinian residents. The region has seen a rise in incidents involving shootings, demolitions, and arrests
