GENEVA: The president of the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), Mirjana Spoljaric, arrived in the war-torn Gaza Strip, expressing deep concern over the “intolerable” human suffering in the region. Spoljaric called for the protection of Palestinian civilians in Gaza, highlighting the lack of safe places for civilians amid ongoing Israeli bombardments.
In a statement posted on social media, Spoljaric declared, “I have arrived in Gaza, where people’s suffering is intolerable.” She criticized the Israeli military siege in place, highlighting the absence of a sufficient humanitarian response under the current conditions. The ICRC president stressed the unacceptability of Palestinian civilians having no safe place in Gaza.
Spoljaric’s visit to the region is set to take place in several stages, with an additional visit to Israel expected in the coming weeks. The ICRC president underscored the need for all those deprived of liberty to be treated humanely, advocating for the release of hostages and expressing the ICRC’s commitment to ensuring their safety.
Israeli Military Brutalities in Gaza
The visit follows the resumption of full-scale Israeli military operation in Gaza, marking the collapse of a week-long truce brokered by Qatar, the United States, and Egypt. During the truce, Israel and Hamas exchanged hostages and prisoners.
Spoljaric’s purpose in Gaza is to advance efforts to alleviate the humanitarian situation and convey deep concern for the plight of civilians. The ICRC, as a neutral actor, stands ready to support further humanitarian agreements that reduce suffering and heartbreak. She reiterated the call for an unimpeded and regular flow of aid to enter Gaza.
