Gaza fighting continues despite Israeli ‘pauses’ announcement: UNRWA

Despite Israel's announcements of pauses in its military operation in Gaza, fighting continues in the besieged territory, according to the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA). UNRWA spokesperson Tamara al-Rifai reported that despite Israel's claim of temporary halts in its attacks, “the fighting continues” on June 17. She also expressed deep concern over the deteriorating humanitarian situation in Gaza, emphasizing that essential services like water and electricity are increasingly strained. Israel launched its offensive against Gaza on October 7, following a barrage of rockets from Hamas, and has since been facing severe international criticism for the heavy civilian casualties and the devastation inflicted on the already impoverished territory. The conflict has resulted in thousands of Palestinian fatalities, with Israel claiming that it is targeting Hamas militants and military infrastructure. UNRWA has been actively providing aid to the displaced Palestinians in Gaza, but the agency says its resources are stretched thin and it urgently needs international support to address the growing humanitarian crisis. Despite international calls for de-escalation, the conflict continues, raising concerns about the escalating humanitarian crisis in Gaza and the long-term consequences of the ongoing fighting.

Summary

"The ongoing conflict in Gaza, marked by continuous fighting despite Israeli announcements of temporary pauses, has resulted in a dire humanitarian situation, leaving thousands of Palestinians dead and vital services strained. UNRWA, grappling with the escalating crisis, is urgently appealing for international support to address the needs of the displaced and alleviate the growing humanitarian crisis in Gaza."