UN official on aftermath of Mawasi attack: 'The air was filled with the smell of blood'

Scott Anderson, deputy humanitarian coordinator and director of Unrwa affairs in Gaza, has described a visit to Nasser hospital in the aftermath of the Mawasi attack, as "some of the most horrific scenes I have seen in my nine months in Gaza".

He added that the hospital was overwhelmed and struggling to treat hundreds of severe injuries amid shortages of beds, medical supplies and hygiene equipment. Many patients are being treated on the floor without disinfectant.

"Ventilation systems were switched off due to a lack of electricity and fuel, and the air was filled with the smell of blood," he said.

"I saw toddlers who are double amputees, children paralysed and unable to receive treatment, and others separated from their parents. I also saw mothers and fathers who were unsure if their children were alive. Parents told me in despair that they had moved into the 'so-called humanitarian zone' in the hope that their children would be safe there."