U.N. Human Rights Chief Urges End to Gaza Conflict

The U.N. Human Rights Chief Volker Turk emphasized ending the Gaza conflict as a priority in his speech at the U.N. Human Rights Council. He criticized Israel's actions and urged countries to act against the disregard for international law. The conflict has resulted in nearly 50,000 Palestinian deaths.

Volker Turk, the U.N. High Commissioner for Human Rights, declared on Monday that resolving the Gaza conflict is an urgent priority, urging nations to address Israel's 'blatant disregard' for international law in Palestinian territories.

According to Gaza health officials, nearly 50,000 Palestinians have died since Israel's military actions began in response to Hamas attacks on October 7, 2023, which killed 1,200 people and led to the hostage-taking of 250 more.

Addressing the U.N. Human Rights Council in Geneva, Turk stressed the necessity of preventing a full-blown regional conflict. He warned that states must not accept violations of international law. Turk's speech also highlighted global political challenges, while upcoming council sessions will focus on rights violations in Sudan, Afghanistan, and Ukraine.

(With inputs from agencies.)