UN Humanitarian Chief Resigns Due to Health Concerns
Martin Griffiths steps down after a tenure marked by advocacy for Gaza and controversy over Hamas comments.
- UN humanitarian chief Martin Griffiths announced his resignation due to health reasons, after contracting COVID-19 in late 2023 and suffering from long-COVID.
- Griffiths has been a vocal advocate for humanitarian aid, particularly in Gaza, and has led efforts in Yemen and other crisis-hit regions.
- He has faced criticism for his statement last month that 'Hamas is not a terrorist group,' emphasizing the need for negotiated solutions over military victories.
- Griffiths served as the UN's under-secretary-general for humanitarian affairs for three years, and his resignation will take effect in June.
- Throughout his career, Griffiths has worked for various international humanitarian organizations and held positions such as the UN special envoy for Yemen.