Gaza: Over 60,000 children aged 5 and under in Gaza are facing malnutrition, according to the UN special coordinator for the Middle East peace process. Speaking to Anadolu at Trkiye's Antalya Diplomacy Forum (ADF), Sigrid Kaag highlighted that humanitarian aid, previously reaching those in need during the January ceasefire, has been obstructed since March 2.

According to Anadolu Agency, Kaag stated that the equipment needed by aid workers and fuel for hospitals has become insufficient, causing disruptions in the distribution of humanitarian aid. She emphasized that under international law, Israel is obliged to ensure the delivery of aid to Gaza and stressed the urgency of resuming humanitarian efforts.

Kaag condemned Israel's attacks on Gaza, describing them as horrific for both civilians and international aid workers, most of whom are Palestinian. The Israeli army resumed its assault on Gaza on March 18, breaking a ceasefire and prisoner exchange agreement established in January.

Since October 2023, nearly 51,000 Palestinians, primarily women and children, have been killed in the ongoing Israeli offensive. The International Criminal Court issued arrest warrants last November for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, accusing them of war crimes and crimes against humanity in Gaza. Additionally, Israel faces a genocide case at the International Court of Justice for its actions in the enclave.

Kaag described the Antalya Diplomacy Forum as an "excellent platform" where issues are discussed from the Global South's perspective. She noted that some UN colleagues use the forum for "political speed dating," conducting numerous meetings in a single day to save time and travel.

She also highlighted Trkiye's significant role on the global stage, noting that the NATO member country offers diverse experiences as a productive nation, investor, and political actor regionally and globally.