Turk: Exchange operations should lead to a permanent ceasefire and extensive relief in Gaza

The UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Turk, called for the ongoing prisoner and hostage exchange operations to lead to a permanent ceasefire in the Gaza Strip, emphasizing the need to ensure a wide and regular flow of humanitarian aid to the besieged civilians.

In statements reported by media on Wednesday, Turk affirmed that the current crisis cannot be resolved through temporary arrangements alone, but must be accompanied by genuine accountability for serious violations of international humanitarian law, referring to what he described as "the disproportionate targeting of civilians and critical infrastructure."

The UN commissioner stressed that justice must be part of any future settlement, calling on all parties to respect international law, facilitate the work of humanitarian organizations, and provide protection for civilians without discrimination.