He expressed particular apprehension about the potential consequences of a ground attack on Rafah, stating that it would result in heavy loss of life and increase the risk of further brutal crimes by the Israeli military.
“Today we are entering the sixth month of this brutal conflict, we fear that this catastrophic may slide deeper into the abyss," Lawrence stated. "There must be an immediate end to this conflict, and the killing and destruction must cease."
Lawrence emphasized Israel's obligations under international humanitarian law to ensure the well-being of Gaza's civilian population. He called for the full opening of border crossings and the facilitation of aid convoys to reach civilians in need safely and freely.
The Gaza Health Ministry reported that Israeli army attacks in the past 24 hours have killed 78 people and wounded 104. In the city of Deir el-Balah, at least 11 people were killed, and many more were wounded.
Since October 7, Israeli attacks on Gaza have resulted in the deaths of at least 30,878 Palestinians, with 72,402 others injured.