The United Nations has issued a warning that "anarchy" is spreading in Gaza as displaced Palestinians face a severe humanitarian crisis. UN officials report that the lack of local law enforcement and essential supplies has resulted in widespread looting, unlawful killings, and shootings.
The constant movement of people in Gaza, seeking safety amid bombings and natural elements, has led to a breakdown in civic order and widespread lawlessness. United Nations staff report that nearly the entire population has been driven from their homes, often being displaced multiple times.
In a statement, Jeremy Laurence, Spokesperson for the Office of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR), said, "Looting, mob justice, extortion, family disputes, random shootings, and fighting for space and resources have become common, with youths armed with sticks manning barricades."
The UN identifies continued bombardments, severe overcrowding, and shortages of basic supplies as the main factors driving the chaos.
Ajith Sunghay, Head of OHCHR for the Occupied Palestinian Territories, highlighted the need to restore civic order, stressing the importance of having the police back on the streets.
"Nobody is enforcing civic order," Sunghay noted.
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