GAZA – UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk has expressed deep concern over the dire humanitarian conditions at Egypt’s Rafah crossing, describing it as “the gates to a living nightmare.” Türk’s remarks came following his visit to the crossing, a critical juncture for the 2.3 million people in Gaza.
According to Jordan News Agency, the situation in Gaza is extremely dire, with people mourning their lost family members and desperately struggling for basic necessities like water, food, electricity, and fuel. He noted the unbearable conditions, emphasizing that his own colleagues are among those trapped and suffering losses.
Türk described the Rafah crossing as a “symbolic lifeline” for Gaza’s population, but lamented that this lifeline has been “unjustly, outrageously thin.” He urgently called for a ceasefire, highlighting three critical human rights imperatives: the delivery of massive humanitarian aid throughout Gaza, the unconditional and immediate release of all hostages held since October 7, and the creation of political space to implement a durable end to the occupation.
During his visit to El Arish hospital in North Sinai, Türk met individuals who have suffered greatly due to the conflict. He shared the story of Ikram, a woman who lost her baby and underwent a hysterectomy after being hit by shrapnel. He also mentioned meeting Mohammad, a 12-year-old boy from Jabaliya with spinal injuries and bone fractures, who arrived at Rafah unaccompanied and traumatized.
Türk emphasized that the current situation in Gaza, Israel, and the West Bank is the most dangerous in decades, not only for the people directly affected but also regionally. He addressed concerns about perceived double standards in the conflict, insisting that the world cannot afford such disparities. Instead, he stressed the need to adhere to universal standards based on international human rights and humanitarian laws.
The UN top official concluded his remarks by underscoring the need for immediate action to address the escalating crisis and ensure the protection and rights of all affected individuals.