Palestinian minister says 'humanitarian catastrophe' unfolding in Gaza

ISTANBUL

Palestinian Social Development Minister Ahmed Mecdelani has called the situation unfolding in Gaza since Oct. 7 a “humanitarian catastrophe," calling for an immediate cease-fire.

Speaking to Anadolu, Mecdelani detailed the extent of the devastation, with over 1.8 million Palestinians displaced and more than 300,000 homes destroyed.

Those dead, wounded and missing exceed 110,000, 70% of whom are women and children, he said.

Moreover, 70% of the infrastructure has been destroyed, he added. This includes three churches, more than 162 mosques, 205 schools and 11 universities, he said.

Dire situation in Rafah

Mecdelani shed light on the dire situation in Rafah, emphasizing targeted attacks on vital facilities like hospitals, universities, and places of worship, aggravating the crisis further.

With 1.8 million Palestinians enduring harsh conditions in Rafah, Mecdelani said that incoming aid barely covers 10% of the population's needs.

“Approximately 400,000 people are living in bad weather conditions because they cannot find a center to accommodate them.’’

He pointed out overcrowding in Rafah, with 29,000-30,000 people per square kilometer with an area of 55,000 square meters.

“If an attack were to be launched on Rafah, it would mean the collective killing of Palestinians by Israel.’’

Criticizing Israel's preference for a military over a political solution, Mecdelani accused Israel of seeking to deport hundreds of thousands of Palestinians to Egypt instead of pursuing a cease-fire and prisoner exchange.

International community's will subject to US veto

Mecdelani criticized the role of the international community, particularly the influence of the US.

He decried the lack of meaningful intervention, attributing it to America's unwavering support for Israel, which has bolstered its military actions and marginalized global peace efforts.

Mecdelani argued that America's dominance stifles international consensus, allowing for continued Israeli aggression.

“Unfortunately, there is no such thing as the international community. There is only the veto of America, which seizes the will of the international community.’’

He highlighted the double standards in global diplomacy, noting the disparity in responses between conflicts such as the war in Ukraine and the situation in Gaza, where Israel receives support instead of sanctions.

Türkiye’s significant role

Mecdelani praised Türkiye’s significant role in supporting the Palestinian people in Gaza, highlighting President Recep Tayyip Erdogan's leadership and Türkiye’s humanitarian aid efforts.

He stressed the importance of ongoing collaboration between Türkiye and Palestine to alleviate the suffering of Palestinians.

Acknowledging Türkiye’s clear political stance in international forums and its active role in organizations such as the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), Mecdelani expressed gratitude for Türkiye’s humanitarian assistance and its acceptance of injured Palestinians.

He also noted the positive coordination between the Palestinian Ministry of Social Development and its Turkish counterpart, citing recent joint efforts to assist injured Palestinian children in Türkiye.

Call to international community

Mecdelani issued a call for action to the international community to halt the Israeli aggression, facilitate the delivery of humanitarian aid to those in need, chart a path towards lasting political solution, and the end of occupation.

“This war, with all its tragedies and difficulties, should pave the way for the declaration of the Palestinian state,’’ he said.

Mecdelani also stressed the necessity of collective efforts to secure lasting peace and stability in the region.

*Writing by Gizem Nisa Cebi