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After thirteen years of conflict in Syria, and despite a year of new diplomatic avenues, the tragic reality is that developments are all going in the wrong direction – including in the security, humanitarian, human rights, economic and political spheres. I am alarmed at the trajectory of events, and the lack of progress in reversing them.

THE SECRETARY-GENERAL

REMARKS TO PRESS STAKEOUT

New York, 18 March 2024

The latest report on food insecurity in Gaza is an appalling indictment of conditions on the ground for civilians.

The world’s leading experts on food insecurity clearly document that famine in the northern part of Gaza is imminent.

More than half of all Palestinians in Gaza –1.1 million people– have completely exhausted their food supplies and are facing catastrophic hunger.

Palestinians in Gaza are enduring horrifying levels of hunger and suffering.

This is the highest number of people facing catastrophic hunger ever recorded by the Integrated Food Security Classification system –anywhere, anytime.

This is an entirely manmade disaster—and the report makes clear that it can be halted.

Today’s report is Exhibit A for the need for an immediate humanitarian cease-fire.

I call on the Israeli authorities to ensure complete and unfettered access for humanitarian goods throughout Gaza and for the international community to fully support our humanitarian efforts.

We must act now to prevent the unthinkable, the unacceptable and the unjustifiable.

Thank you.