The United Nations has expressed deep concern over the tragic deaths of eight infants from hypothermia in the besieged Gaza Strip.  

During a press briefing on Monday, UN Spokesperson Stephane Dujarric confirmed the death of another infant due to extreme cold, highlighting the dire humanitarian situation in Gaza. "These deaths were preventable, had the items required to protect these children been accessible to their families," Dujarric emphasized.  

He further condemned the ongoing Israeli hostilities, which have resulted in widespread destruction, displacement, and a significant loss of civilian life. Dujarric specifically condemned the Israeli attack on a UN school and reiterated the importance of protecting civilians and civilian infrastructure, including humanitarian workers and aid convoys, in accordance with international humanitarian law.

The UN has also raised concerns over the continued restrictions imposed by Israeli authorities on access to northern Gaza. Over the past three days, three UN attempts to reach these areas were met with Israeli opposition.  

Furthermore, Dujarric highlighted the challenges faced by humanitarian organizations in delivering aid. He noted that 15 out of 37 planned UN-led humanitarian missions were denied, nine were impeded, and one was canceled due to logistical and operational issues.  

The UN has urged Israel to facilitate the rapid and widespread flow of aid, fuel, and commercial goods into Gaza through multiple entry points to prevent the looting of humanitarian resources.  

The UN Spokesperson also condemned the recent attack on a World Food Programme (WFP) convoy by Israeli forces, emphasizing the importance of respecting international humanitarian law and ensuring the safety of humanitarian workers. (ILKHA)