“It is also clear from the public response to the progress that Palestinians, Israelis and People across the region want this peace to take root.”said Mr. Fletcher.
“So, We must not fail to achieve full implementation of the agreements reached.”
He said UN humanitarian operations had finally begun to ramp up “after months of frustration and blockades”, with the delivery of some food, medicine, fuel, water, cooking gas and tents to those in need.
Renewed setbacks
However, he warned that further setbacks now threatened to undermine that fragile progress.
“We are now being tested to see if we can ensure that this does not impede the progress that President (Donald) Trump, the UN Secretary General and so many leaders have insisted on,” he said.
Fletcher urged Hamas to “make strenuous efforts to return all the bodies of the deceased hostages, urgently,” and expressed concern about “evidence of violence against civilians in Gaza.”
He also pressured Israel to allow “the massive increase in humanitarian aid (thousands of trucks per week) on which so many lives depend.” He said additional border crossings must be opened and remaining logistical barriers removed to ensure aid flows freely.
“Providing aid is a legal obligation,” Fletcher stressed. “We will not accept any interference with our help distribution.“
Summary executions in Gaza
Their call came as the UN human rights office (OHCHR) reported new allegations of serious abuses in Gaza, including summary executions and unlawful killings of civilians.
Armed clashes between Hamas-affiliated groups and rival factions have intensified since October 10, the OHCHR said in a press release.
On October 13, video footage released by the Sahm Unit, reportedly linked to Gaza’s Interior Ministry, showed the public execution of eight blindfolded and handcuffed men, suspected members of a family militia based in Gaza City.
OHCHR added that such acts “constitutes a war crime,and reminded Hamas that “they must prevent and repress any violations or abuses committed by their members.”
Meanwhile, Israeli forces reportedly opened fire on Palestinians trying to return to their homes in eastern Gaza City on October 14, killing three. The OHCHR said it had recorded 15 Palestinian deaths in similar incidents since October 10.
“The situation in Gaza remains precarious and uncertain,”said Ajith Sunghay, head of OHCHR in the Occupied Palestinian Territory.
“It is imperative to ensure that the ceasefire is maintained and moves towards the recovery and full realization of the Palestinians’ right to self-determination,” he added.