United Nations Radio

UN High Commissioner for Refugees António Guterres on Monday called for strict adherence to humanitarian principles in the ongoing conflict in Gaza, including respect for the universal right of those fleeing war to seek safety in other states.

children fleeing bombing in Gaza

Although there has been no large-scale movement out of Gaza because of a blockade, Guterres reminded neighboring states of their responsibility to provide access to safety for those civilians fleeing violence.
He says "those who are compelled to flee the Gaza Strip should be able to do so and to find safety and security in other countries according to international law."
And he urges that "all borders and access routes concerned should be kept open and safe, and Palestinians endeavouring to leave Gaza should not be prevented from doing so."
Guterres also expressed strong support and solidarity for the UN Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA), which is in charge of providing support to Palestinians and is struggling to carry out its mission in Gaza's steadily worsening humanitarian environment.
The High Commissioner says "it is absolutely imperative that the immediate delivery of humanitarian assistance to the civilian victims of this conflict be facilitated, including access from Egypt and Israel."
The High Commissioner expressed grave concern over the conflict's toll on civilians, saying the heavy casualties suffered by innocent civilians, including many children, are heartbreaking."
This is Donn Bobb reporting for United Nations Radio.
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