Gaza city: Death and destruction continue to affect Palestinians in Gaza every day despite a decrease in the intensity of hostilities since last year's ceasefire, according to Pat Griffiths, a spokesperson for the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC).
According to Anadolu Agency, Griffiths emphasized the persistent suffering faced by Palestinians, noting that life in Gaza remains disrupted. "Let's be clear: death and destruction for Palestinians in Gaza continues every day. The suffering is real, present and here every day - even when Gaza isn't in the headlines," Griffiths stated. He highlighted the significant challenges in accessing education, medical care, and basic necessities, with many families still searching for missing loved ones.
Griffiths, on a weeklong visit to Gaza City, pointed out the urgent humanitarian needs for food, water, shelter, and healthcare. "At the ICRC, we adapt our humanitarian response to changing needs and conflict dynamics. But make no mistake: urgent humanitarian needs remain," she said. Humanitarian access remains a major challenge, with security concerns and access restrictions hampering aid efforts.
The ICRC continues to face difficulties in ensuring essential supplies reach those in need. Griffiths highlighted the lack of adequate access to quality food and medical supplies, as well as restrictions on materials needed for reconstruction and maintenance of essential services. He also mentioned the critical shortages of fuel and engine oil necessary for operating generators, exacerbating the hardships faced by Gaza's residents.
Griffiths noted that these shortages are inflating prices, leaving many displaced Palestinians unable to afford basic goods. "These shortages in Gaza disrupt essential services and drive prices up," she explained. The ICRC calls for unrestricted entry of essential goods and adherence to international humanitarian law to alleviate the suffering.
Living conditions remain dire, with many Palestinians residing in tents or unsafe buildings. Griffiths recounted the recent collapse of a damaged building in Gaza City, emphasizing the impossible choices faced by families. With winter approaching, she warned of the increased risks and called for resources to clear rubble and provide durable shelter materials.
Despite the challenges, Griffiths highlighted the resilience and desire for a normal life among Palestinians in Gaza. "The desire for a dignified, normal life reflects the purpose of international humanitarian law: protecting civilians and reducing suffering during conflict," she said. She shared the poignant story of a Palestinian journalist's poem about freedom, symbolizing the aspirations of many in Gaza.
Griffiths reiterated the importance of international awareness and action, urging for political will to foster dialogue and sustainable solutions. "Too many lives are at stake for anything less," she concluded.