The United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) called on Israeli authorities to protect all civilians sheltering in its premises across the Gaza Strip, including those in northern Gaza and Gaza City.

UNRWA said that despite the order to evacuate more than 1 million persons from northern Gaza and Gaza City to the southern Gaza Strip, many, particularly pregnant women, children, the elderly and persons with disabilities, will not be able to flee the area. They have no choice and must be protected at all times.

“Wars have rules. Civilians, hospitals, schools, clinics and United Nations premises cannot be a target”, said UNRWA. “UNRWA is sparing no efforts to advocate with parties to the conflicts to meet their obligations under international law to protect civilians, including those seeking refuge in UNRWA shelters.”

“UNRWA shelters in Gaza and northern Gaza are no longer safe. This is unprecedented”, the statement added. “This war should be no exception, protection of civilians and civilian infrastructure, including United Nations buildings, applies to this conflict too.”