Administrator Samantha Power Spoke with UN Under-Secretary-General Martin Griffiths
The below is attributable to Acting Spokesperson Shejal Pulivarti:
On June 3, Administrator Samantha Power spoke with UN Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs and Emergency Relief Coordinator Martin Griffiths to discuss the dire humanitarian situation in Gaza. Administrator Power and Under-Secretary-General Griffiths discussed efforts to improve humanitarian conditions within Gaza amid ongoing military operations and intense fighting. They discussed worsening conditions following the recent escalation of Israeli military operations, including new displacements of over one million people coupled with extreme food insecurity, alarming reports of child malnutrition and urgent need for shelter support, water, sanitation and health services across Gaza.
The Administrator also highlighted the need for a sustained, predictable supply of humanitarian aid into Gaza, noting the current challenges in distribution of aid and the imperative of assistance reaching the most vulnerable, especially children and mothers. They spoke about the need for additional measures and commitments from the Government of Israel to improve the safety and security of civilians in Gaza and humanitarian personnel.
The Administrator and Under-Secretary-General discussed the proposal to achieve an enduring ceasefire in Gaza and secure the release of all hostages, and affirmed their shared calls for Hamas to accept the deal. This proposal would enable a return of Palestinian civilians to northern Gaza, a surge of humanitarian assistance, and restoration of essential services.
Administrator Power expressed her appreciation for the heroic efforts by UN and NGO staff to provide lifesaving assistance to people in Gaza.
