UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Türk, issued an urgent plea on Monday for restraint amid escalating tensions following an Israeli military incursion in Rafah, warning of the potential for further atrocities in the ongoing Gaza conflict.
With nearly 1.5 million people packed into the southern city on the Egyptian border and nowhere left to seek refuge, the situation is described as “terrifying” by Türk. He expressed grave concern that a full-scale incursion into Rafah could result in a significant number of civilian casualties, primarily among children and women, echoing the devastating toll witnessed elsewhere in Gaza.
In addition to the human cost, Türk emphasized the jeopardy facing humanitarian aid deliveries into Gaza, citing the potential collapse of already limited assistance efforts. This poses dire consequences, especially for hundreds of thousands of vulnerable individuals in the northern enclave who are on the brink of starvation and famine.
Highlighting the imperative of upholding international humanitarian law, Türk underscored Israel’s obligation to adhere to legally binding orders issued by the International Court of Justice (ICJ). He stressed the need for accountability for those who flout international legal norms, particularly in light of the ICJ’s recent ruling affirming Palestinians’ right to protection from acts of genocide and urging Israel to facilitate aid access to Gaza.
Türk urged global actors to intervene to prevent further escalation, calling for an immediate ceasefire, the release of remaining hostages, and renewed efforts towards a political resolution to the conflict. He emphasized the collective responsibility to prevent further suffering and uphold the principles of international law.
