The UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Türk, described the collective psychological trauma experienced by the people of Gaza as “the most serious mental health crisis imaginable,” emphasizing that the vast majority of the population, particularly children, are suffering from severe psychological trauma.
During a press conference held to mark the annual International Human Rights Day, Türk stressed that the Gaza Strip remains “a place of suffering, loss, and fear.”
The UN official reiterated his condemnation of the ongoing Israeli attacks on Gaza, including the bombing of civilians approaching the “yellow line,” as well as the targeting of residential buildings, tents and shelters of displaced persons, and other civilian targets.
Türk pointed out that Security Council Resolution 2803 (2025) is “very clear” in not recognizing any borders or lines, but rather addresses a territory that must be fully respected. He was referring to the resolution adopted by the Council on November 17, 2020, to support a comprehensive plan to end the conflict.
The High Commissioner for Human Rights called on all parties to immediately commit to a ceasefire and ensure a smooth transition to the next phase of the peace plan.
