The already critical humanitarian situation in Gaza is rapidly becoming unlivable, Martin Griffiths, head of the United Nations humanitarian aid program, said in a statement.

There is no electricity, water or fuel in Gaza and food is running dangerously low, the UN official says, appealing to all countries with influence to ensure the rules of war are respected and prevent further escalation.

The actions and rhetoric of Hamas and Israel in recent days are “extremely disturbing, unacceptable,” he says. Civilians and civilian infrastructure must be protected.”

In Gaza, families were shelled heading south through jammed, damaged roads following Israel’s evacuation order that left hundreds of thousands of people seeking safety but with nowhere to go,” the statement said.

Even wars have rules and those rules must be followed, always and by all sides.”

“Civilians must be allowed to flee to safe areas. And regardless of whether they leave or stay, there must be constant concern for their protection.”

Those captured must be treated humanely and all hostages must be freed, says Martin Griffiths.

“Civilians in Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories are suffering through a week of utter agony and destruction. I fear the worst is yet to come. Last week was a test of humanity, and humanity is failing».