The Israeli-US aid operation has turned Gaza into a “human abattoir”, or slaughterhouse, former UNRWA spokesperson Chris Gunness has said, in a reference to distribution sites operated by the controversial Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF).

“Hundreds of civilians are herded like animals into fenced-off pens and are slaughtered like cattle in the process,” Gunness told Al Jazeera.

The former UN official cast doubt on the reason for the suspension, saying its work had been halted “because it has rightly sparked international outrage and condemnation”.

Asked about the UN Security Council resolution calling for a permanent ceasefire in Gaza that was shot down yesterday, Gunness said Washington’s veto showed “the complete isolation of Israel and America — not just from the rest of the Security Council, but from the rest of humanity”.

“The international community must impose economic and military sanctions immediately,” he added.