UN deplores 'catastrophic' resumption of Gaza fighting

The United Nations deplored the resumption of conflict in Gaza, describing the hostilities as “catastrophic” and urging parties to bring about a lasting ceasefire

The United Nations deplored the resumption of conflict in Gaza on December 1, describing the hostilities as "catastrophic" and urging parties to bring about a lasting ceasefire.

Jens Laerke, spokesperson for the United Nations humanitarian office in Geneva, said the resumption of hostilities meant "hell on Earth has returned to Gaza".

Israel-Hamas updates December 1

Israeli warplanes resumed bombing Gaza, sending Palestinian civilians fleeing for shelter after a week-old truce ran out with no deal to extend it.

"The resumption of hostilities in Gaza is catastrophic," said Volker Turk, the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights.

"I urge all parties and states with influence over them to redouble efforts, immediately, to ensure a ceasefire — on humanitarian and human rights grounds."

In a post on X social media platform, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said he regretted the resumption of hostilities and hoped a new pause could be established.