In a statement released on Sunday, Wennesland described the situation in northern Gaza as a “nightmare” marked by relentless Israeli airstrikes and deteriorating humanitarian conditions.

He highlighted the devastation in Beit Lahia, where at least 87 Palestinians were reportedly killed overnight, with many more trapped under the rubble as the bombing intensified.

“This war must end,” Wennesland declared. “The nightmare in Gaza is intensifying. Horrifying scenes are unfolding... Nowhere is safe in Gaza.”

Wennesland’s remarks underscored the growing civilian death toll and the near-total absence of humanitarian aid, especially in northern Gaza.

Palestinians inspect the damage after an Israeli airstrike in Beit Lahia, in the northern Gaza Strip on October 19, 2024. AFP 

According to the latest figures from the Palestinian Health Ministry, at least 42,603 people have been killed, most of them women and children, and more than 99,795 have been injured since Israeli strikes on the Gaza Strip began on October 7, 2023.

The UN envoy condemned the attacks on civilians and emphasized the urgent need to protect non-combatants, halt further displacement of Palestinians, and secure the release of captives held by Hamas.

He stressed the importance of unobstructed humanitarian access to the besieged area, warning that the lack of essential supplies is compounding the crisis.

“Humanitarian aid must be delivered unimpeded,” Wennesland urged, calling on all parties to allow lifesaving assistance to reach those in need.

The Israeli war on Gzaa has already displaced thousands and devastated entire neighborhoods, drawing increasing concern from the international community.

Wennesland reiterated the need for political will and diplomacy to prevent further escalation and provide relief to civilians on both sides.

“The path ahead will require courage, political will, and renewed dialogue,” he said. “We owe it to the families suffering in Gaza and Israel. The war must stop now.”

As diplomatic efforts to broker a ceasefire continue, aid agencies warn that the humanitarian toll is mounting rapidly, and the window to prevent a full-scale catastrophe is closing.

Wennesland’s appeal adds to growing international pressure on both Israeli and Palestinian leadership to seek a peaceful resolution before more lives are lost.