UNICEF: 'We need a ceasefire now for the children in Rafah'

Elder and Ravina Shamdasani, spokesperson for the United Nations (UN) Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights, made assessments regarding the Israeli army's ground offensive on Rafah during the weekly press briefing at the UN Geneva Office.

Stating that the nightmare of those in Gaza has become a reality following Israel's attacks, Elder said, "This is a reality that those in power have the ability to prevent."

Elder noted that Rafah is a "children's city" and that more than half of the children in Gaza are living there.

Pointing out that the basic standard of living in Rafah is dire, Elder stated, "In Rafah, there is one toilet for every 850 people. If the Rafah Border Crossing remains closed for a long time, it is difficult to see how famine in Gaza can be prevented."

Recalling that children continued to be killed in Gaza over the weekend and that Israel has requested the evacuation of civilians in Rafah, Elder said, "This once again reveals how the parties to the conflict continue to completely disregard the lives and protection of children and civilians."

Underlining that large amounts of aid must enter Gaza, Elder said, "Rafah must not be invaded, and children must no longer be killed. We need a ceasefire now for the children in Rafah."

'THOSE IN RAFAH ARE BEING FORCIBLY DISPLACED'

Shamdasan, for her part, said there are "strong indications" that the forced displacement of people in Rafah is being carried out in violation of international law.

Pointing out that Rafah is the "last refuge" for more than 1 million Palestinians who were forced to relocate due to Israel's brutal attacks in other parts of Gaza, Shamdasan noted that the people there are being forcibly displaced once again.