Daijiworld Media Network - Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi, Mar 19: The United Arab Emirates (UAE) Foreign Ministry has raised concerns that continued Israeli airstrikes on civilian and residential areas in Gaza could exacerbate instability in the region, leading to an escalation of violence.

In a statement, the ministry called for urgent action to prevent further loss of innocent lives and to halt the deterioration of humanitarian conditions in Gaza. It also urged for the cessation of punitive measures against civilians and the immediate de-escalation of hostilities. The UAE called on the international community to advocate for a renewed ceasefire, the restoration of electricity, and the reopening of borders to allow the unhindered flow of humanitarian aid to those in need.

The ministry reaffirmed the UAE’s commitment to supporting global efforts aimed at achieving a peaceful resolution and ensuring the protection of civilians.

These remarks followed Israel's extensive airstrikes across Gaza early Tuesday, which resulted in over 400 fatalities and further undermined the fragile ceasefire that had been in place since January 19. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu later declared that Israel would intensify its assault on Gaza, stating that future negotiations on a ceasefire would only occur "under fire."

Earlier in the day, UN humanitarian chief Tom Fletcher urged for an immediate renewal of the ceasefire, calling on Israel to lift the blockade on critical aid and commercial supplies to Gaza. Fletcher described the resumption of airstrikes as a realization of the UN’s worst fears, with evacuation orders being issued and the people of Gaza once again living in fear.