UN rights chief condemns Israeli 'siege' of Gaza, militants' taking of hostages; UN agency pre-positions necessities at schools amidst Israeli air strikes

The UN Human Rights chief, Volker Turk, condemned the Israeli airstrikes on the Gaza Strip, stating that the strikes hit residential buildings and schools, which is illegal under international law. Turk also criticized the "horrifying mass killings" by Palestinian armed groups and the militants' abduction of hostages, both of which are forbidden under international law. The Israeli military has called up 300,000 reservists and imposed a total blockade on Gaza, potentially signaling a ground assault in response to the recent attacks by Hamas gunmen. The airstrikes have also hit UN relief agency premises, resulting in civilian casualties. The UN has expressed concern over the supply cuts and depletion of medical supplies in Gaza, warning of a worsening humanitarian situation. A UN-appointed Commission of Inquiry has found evidence of potential war crimes committed by all sides in the conflict.