UN Warns of 68 Million Tonnes of Debris in Gaza
UN officials state that explosive ordnance remains embedded in rubble, hindering recovery and human rights in the Occupied Palestinian Territory.
Key points
- UN officials estimate 68 million metric tonnes of debris in Gaza may contain explosive ordnance.
- Contamination hinders humanitarian access, debris management, and the recovery of human remains.
- The UN calls for sustained financing, safe access, and diplomatic pressure to uphold international law.
Ajith Sunghay, head of the UN Human Rights Office, addressed a donor forum. He discussed the severe threat of explosive ordnance in the Occupied Palestinian Territory. The remarks highlighted the impact on human rights and safety.
According to reliefweb.int, contamination has become a defining challenge. It undermines the full enjoyment of human rights. The situation affects both Gaza and the West Bank.
Debris complicates recovery efforts
Extensive use of explosive weapons caused high levels of death and displacement. An estimated 68 million metric tonnes of debris remains. This rubble potentially contains unexploded ordnance.
Hazards are embedded in collapsed homes and infrastructure. This makes humanitarian access and debris management difficult. It also hinders the dignified recovery of human remains.
The challenge extends beyond Gaza. In the West Bank, longstanding contamination is compounded by new operations. Emerging hazards arise from wider regional escalation.
Long-term effects on civilians
Harm from explosive ordnance persists long after attacks. Survivors require emergency medical treatment and rehabilitation. Ongoing exposure causes long-term psychological distress.
Persistent fear restricts movement and access to essential services. It prevents people from safely returning to their homes. Livelihoods are disrupted by these continuous risks.
Call for sustained support
Mine Action is not a stand-alone technical activity. It is directly relevant to civilian protection. It requires safe, sustained, and predictable humanitarian access.
Officials advocate for timely authorization and multi-year financing. They call for investment in Palestinian capacity. Diplomatic pressure is needed to uphold international law.
