The United Nations Secretary-General, Antonio Guterres, and UNDP Administrator, Achim Steiner continue to call for an immediate ceasefire, the release of all hostages, protection for civilians, and full access for the desperately needed humanitarian aid that is waiting at the borders.

Civilians, particularly women and children, have borne the brunt of half a year of carnage, with more than 32,000 killed and more than 75,000 injured. Over a million people face catastrophic hunger, and too many of the most vulnerable have already died from starvation.

Despite being driven from their homes, living in squalid conditions, and grieving unimaginable human losses, as well as the destruction of family homes, mosques, universities and hospitals, Palestinians in Gaza continue to survive with dignity and hope for a better future.