UN alarmed over Israeli atrocities in Gaza Strip, West Bank

By the Editorial Team · Thursday, September 3, 2026

The United Nations has raised alarm over Israeli airstrikes in Gaza causing civilian casualties and damage to medical facilities, alongside increased violence by settlers against Palestinians in the West Bank. These developments are severely hindering humanitarian aid efforts and escalating tensions, with critical shortages and access restrictions complicating relief operations ahead of Gaza’s rainy season.

The United Nations has expressed serious concern over ongoing Israeli military operations in the Gaza Strip and escalating violence by settlers in the occupied West Bank, highlighting the impact on civilians and humanitarian efforts in the region.

At a briefing, UN spokesperson Stéphane Dujarric reported that Israeli airstrikes in Gaza have reportedly resulted in civilian casualties, including the death of a child. He also confirmed damage to the Al-Aqsa Hospital complex in Deir al-Balah following one of the strikes. Dujarric emphasized the obligation to protect civilians and civilian infrastructure, including medical facilities, amid hostilities.

Humanitarian agencies are preparing for Gaza’s upcoming rainy season, aiming to mitigate flood risks in numerous vulnerable locations. However, these preparations face significant challenges. Dujarric cited shortages in funding and essential supplies such as engine oil, spare parts, and heavy machinery. Additionally, Israeli restrictions on the entry of materials and limited access to parts of Gaza—including areas potentially suitable for establishing temporary shelters—are impeding relief operations.

In the West Bank, the UN drew attention to a surge in violence perpetrated by Israeli settlers. Incidents include theft, arson, vandalism, and attacks on Palestinians. One recent event involved an assault on a residence in Qusra near Nablus, in close proximity to a new settlement outpost that has reportedly isolated three Palestinian families.

Dujarric also highlighted confrontations involving settlers and Israeli forces around Ramallah, which resulted in injuries to 12 Palestinians and at times obstructed movement for residents and emergency vehicles such as ambulances. The occupied West Bank has experienced a marked increase in such incidents, alongside demolition of Palestinian structures and land seizures.

The UN continues to call for the protection of civilians and unfettered access for humanitarian workers in both Gaza and the West Bank amid a deteriorating security and humanitarian situation.

This article was reported by synthesizing coverage from multiple independent news outlets to present a balanced, unbiased account. Read about our editorial standards. Spotted an error? Let us know.