The alarming reports from Gaza about attacks on health personnel, ambulances, and hospitals by Israel are concerning.

These acts undermine the essential and heroic efforts of aid workers striving to save lives amidst hostilities. Humanitarian aid must continue to assist those in desperate need. International Humanitarian Law must be respected by all.

We need to ensure the protection of all civilians, including humanitarian workers and their premises at all times, as well as civilian infrastructure such as medical facilities, schools, and UN premises.

I join UN Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs and Emergency Relief Coordinator Tom Fletcher in calling for the respect of all civilians and humanitarian workers.