United Nations Humanitarian Chief Tom Fletcher is on a five-day mission to South Sudan, focusing on the severe humanitarian situation and escalating protection risks for civilians and aid workers. Fletcher began his visit in Malakal, Upper Nile state, meeting with local communities to understand their needs amid the ongoing conflict in neighboring Sudan. He will also travel to Jonglei, where recent clashes have displaced approximately 280,000 people, further intensifying humanitarian needs. The mission aims to draw international attention to the worsening crisis and advocate for the protection of civilians and humanitarian personnel.
In Gaza, displaced families continue to face severe risks in overcrowded shelters, with humanitarians highlighting critical fire hazards due to cooking, sleeping, and storage in confined spaces. At least 12 fires have been recorded in shelters since November. Humanitarian movements within Gaza remain challenging, requiring coordination with Israeli authorities, with a significant portion of requested missions facing denials or impediments.
UN Secretary-General António Guterres has condemned the killing of a Palestinian-American man in the West Bank, shot and beaten by Israeli settlers. Guterres called for a swift investigation and accountability for those responsible. He also urged Israel to prevent settler violence against Palestinians. The region continues to experience heightened violence, with Israeli forces killing three Palestinians and settler attacks injuring over 60 Palestinians and displacing 146 in a recent two-week period. Since January 2023, settler attacks and access restrictions have displaced over 4,700 Palestinians across the West Bank.