(27.02.2024)

– A trio of briefers from the key UN aid agencies issued grim warnings to the Council on the situation facing civilians tonight on the ground in Gaza
– “If nothing changes, a famine is imminent in northern Gaza,” warns the World Food Programme (WFP) deputy executive director
– At least 576,000 people are “facing catastrophic levels of deprivation and starvation” across the enclave, according to deputy chief of the UN humanitarian agency, OCHA
– FAO’s deputy director says “essential first steps in eliminating a risk of famine” are a cessation of hostilities and restoration of humanitarian space to deliver lifesaving aid and restored basic services, like water and electricity
– Some Council members proposed action plans to potentially end hostilities beginning with an immediate ceasefire and hostage releases
– Algeria’s ambassador accused Israel of using starvation as a tool of war