The United Nations condemns the deliberate targeting of civilians and deplores the latest incidents involving two civilian buses which resulted in the deaths of over 20 innocent civilians with dozens maimed and injured.

The United Nations calls for the protection of all civilians throughout the island.

The situation in Vaharai in the east is grave and demands an urgent response. According to Government estimates, 15,000 people are isolated without access to food or basic supplies as stocks are decimated. Since the 29 November when the last convoy of humanitarian supplies were allowed in, there has been no access to Vaharai for humanitarian agencies.

“We stand ready to assist those still trapped in Vaharai. These persons are the most vulnerable of the vulnerable. We must always recall that it is the most weak who remain behind – the elderly, the sick and the disabled. They are still without access to food, emergency medical services, and shelter, and continue to be caught in the middle of relentless fighting,” says Amin Awad, Acting Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator.

The United Nations has already mounted an extensive operation supporting the government through local authorities and partner agencies to protect and assist with the basic humanitarian needs of over 70,000 individuals across the district of Batticaloa.

The United Nations further reminds both p arties of their obligations under International Human Rights and Humanitarian Law, as expressed in the Security Council Resolutions on the Protection of Civilians and the Guiding Principles on Internal Displacement.