Riyad Mansour weeps at UN, calling Gaza Children’s pain “unbearable”
At a recent United Nations Security Council session, Palestinian Ambassador Riyad Mansour delivered an emotional and deeply moving speech that has resonated worldwide. As he recounted the suffering of children in Gaza, Mansour was overcome with grief, breaking down in tears while urging the international community to recognize and act on the humanitarian crisis unfolding in the region.
Key Moments from Mansour’s Speech
- Personal Pain and Universal Appeal:
Mansour, his voice shaking and at times pausing to regain composure, spoke of his own grandchildren, drawing a direct line between his family and the families suffering in Gaza. “I have grandchildren. I know what they mean to their families, and to see the situation of the Palestinians without us having hearts to do something is beyond the ability of any normal human being to tolerate,” he said, pounding the table for emphasis. - Highlighting Gaza’s Humanitarian Crisis:
He described the devastation inflicted on Gaza’s children—thousands killed, many more injured, and countless left traumatized. Mansour recounted stories of mothers embracing their lifeless children, apologizing to them, and children dying not only from bombs but also from starvation and lack of medical care. - Condemnation of Double Standards:
Mansour criticized what he called the “double standards” of the international community, emphasizing that Palestinian lives should be valued equally. “Nothing can justify attacking civilians … we are human beings. We are proud Palestinians. We should be treated exactly like everybody else,” he declared. - Call for Action:
He accused the global community of ignoring the plight of Palestinians and demanded urgent intervention to halt the violence and address the humanitarian needs in Gaza. “Do something. Stop this crime against the Palestinian people, this genocide,” he pleaded
The Scale of the Crisis
- Child Casualties:
Since the escalation of violence in October 2023, over 16,800 children have reportedly been killed in Gaza, with many more suffering from injuries, trauma, and the loss of entire families. - Healthcare Collapse:
Gaza’s health system has been devastated, leaving children and families without adequate medical care, food, or shelter5. - Psychological Toll:
Aid workers and doctors describe a generation of children facing severe psychological trauma, with many expressing despair and hopelessness.
The Global Response
- UN and Humanitarian Voices:
UN officials, including the Special Coordinator for the Middle East, have echoed Mansour’s concerns, stressing that Palestinians in Gaza deserve not just survival but a future, and that current aid is woefully insufficient. - Ongoing Debate:
The Security Council session highlighted the deep divisions and ongoing debate over responsibility and the path forward, with calls for an immediate ceasefire and increased humanitarian access.
