The UN warns the Gaza war could resume as ceasefire tensions rise, violence continues and the humanitarian crisis worsens.
NEW YORK: The United Nations has issued a serious Gaza war warning, raising concerns that the fragile ceasefire could collapse as violence continues and humanitarian conditions deteriorate across the Palestinian territory.
Speaking at the UN Security Council on October 15, 2026, Ramiz Alakbarov, Acting UN Special Coordinator for the Middle East Peace Process, said the risk of renewed conflict had reached an unprecedented level.
His warning comes one year after the October 2025 ceasefire, with civilians still facing insecurity, displacement and limited access to essential services.
Why is the UN warning of another war in Gaza?
Alakbarov told the Security Council that Israeli military operations had continued despite the ceasefire.
According to figures from Gaza’s Ministry of Health cited by the UN, approximately 1,500 Palestinians have been killed since the agreement took effect, including more than 320 children and 140 women.
During a recent visit to Gaza, the UN official witnessed families living in damaged buildings, overcrowded shelters and deteriorating tents.
He also reported widespread destruction of water and sanitation infrastructure, leaving communities struggling to meet basic daily needs.
The Gaza war warning reflects growing concern that continued violence and worsening living conditions could undermine the fragile political process.
What did the UN official say about the ceasefire?
Alakbarov stressed that temporary arrangements would not deliver lasting peace without meaningful political progress.
He told the Security Council:
“The risk of a return to war has never been higher. This must be avoided at all costs.”
The statement highlighted the urgency of renewed diplomatic efforts and practical measures to protect civilians.
The UN official also called for progress towards a negotiated two-state solution that would provide security and dignity for Palestinians and Israelis.
Gaza faces growing humanitarian challenges
The humanitarian situation remains particularly concerning as winter approaches.
According to the United Nations, approximately 950,000 people are living in areas exposed to medium or high flooding risks.
More than 4,000 buildings currently providing shelter could also face collapse, creating additional dangers for displaced families.
The UN has called for sustained humanitarian assistance, improved living conditions and stronger efforts to prevent further civilian suffering.
Meanwhile, tensions in the occupied West Bank, including East Jerusalem, remain another concern, with military operations, settler violence and movement restrictions affecting communities.
Impact to expect
The Gaza war warning could increase diplomatic pressure on regional and international mediators to preserve the ceasefire and accelerate peace negotiations. For Middle Eastern countries, renewed fighting could complicate humanitarian assistance, reconstruction efforts and wider regional stability.
The United Nations continues to urge concrete action to prevent another escalation and establish a lasting political settlement.
