Manila, Philippines – The Philippine government has joined the international community in an urgent call to end the worsening humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza.
In a statement issued by the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA), it said that the Philippines is concerned about the latest developments in the city, including Israel’s plan to achieve a full-military takeover of Gaza.
Also, the continued restrictions on life-saving humanitarian aid, such as food, water, massive displacements, attacks on civilians and reported settlement expansion in the West Bank.
According to the DFA, such developments aggravate the situation and the comprehensive peace in the Middle East.
The Philippines is also calling on Israel to heed the call for a ceasefire to protect civilians and reopen the path to peace.
Last week, United Nations (UN) Secretary-General Antonio Guterres renewed his call for a ceasefire, warning that a full assault on Gaza could lead to widespread killings and destruction.
The UN says more than a million people still live in Gaza.
The UN Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) said that since the ceasefire collapsed in March, one out of three children in Gaza is suffering from malnutrition.
Mass displacement continues, with groups warning of hunger and disease in the city, as humanitarian access to Gaza remains restricted.—Alvin Pelobello, Eurotv News