UN warns of fragile Gaza ceasefire after Israeli airstrikes kill civilians

The United Nations has issued a grave warning about the deteriorating security situation in Gaza following Israeli airstrikes that resulted in civilian casualties despite an active ceasefire agreement. UN spokesperson Stephane Dujarric conveyed the organization's deep concern about reported airstrikes that killed and injured civilians, including children, underscoring the precarious nature of the current truce.

Ceasefire Violations and Civilian Casualties

According to Gaza's Health Ministry, Israeli military operations on Wednesday resulted in 25 Palestinian fatalities and 77 injuries through a series of consecutive strikes targeting areas where Israeli forces had previously withdrawn. Palestinian authorities characterized these actions as direct violations of the ceasefire agreement that took effect on October 10. Data from multiple sources indicates dozens of ceasefire violations have occurred since the agreement was established.

UN Calls for Ceasefire Preservation

During a regular news conference, UN spokesperson Dujarric emphasized that the recent violence serves as "a stark reminder of how fragile the ceasefire is" and stressed the universal imperative that "civilians must always be protected and spared from harm." He urged all parties to ensure the ceasefire holds and continues to hold, highlighting the critical need for sustained diplomatic engagement to prevent further escalation and protect vulnerable civilian populations.

Mounting Humanitarian Toll

The Gaza Health Ministry reported that Israeli operations have killed 280 Palestinians and wounded 672 others since October 11. These recent casualties add to the devastating overall toll since October 2023, which includes approximately 70,000 fatalities—predominantly women and children—with over 170,000 injured and widespread destruction reducing much of the coastal enclave to rubble, creating one of the most severe humanitarian crises in the region.