UN spokesperson Stéphane Dujarric expressed encouragement over parties reaffirming their commitment to the Gaza ceasefire and praised mediators’ ongoing efforts during a press briefing in New York. He emphasized concern over recent violence and attacks, urging all parties to meet obligations and avoid actions that could trigger hostilities. Dujarric reiterated the Secretary-General’s call for the release of hostages’ remains.
Humanitarian Affairs Chief Tom Fletcher recently visited Gaza, meeting aid workers and inspecting UN-supported projects like a child nutrition center, hospital, and road clearance operation.
In Gaza City, the United Nations Development Program (UNDP) has begun a significant debris removal operation as part of a broad plan to restore access to essential services. UNDP representative in Palestine, Jaco Cilliers, stated the rubble poses a major challenge, estimated at 55 to 60 million tonnes. The agency is clearing roads and recycling materials to create access roads and facilities. Numerous vehicles are working continuously to unblock Al-Jalaa Street. Cilliers warned that the process will take many years to complete.
Progress in aid delivery under the ceasefire was reported, with UN humanitarians and partners expanding educational spaces and resuming food distributions in Deir al-Balah and Khan Younis. Dujarric noted ongoing aid collection from crossings including postpartum and hygiene kits, medical supplies, fuel, water, and food. He highlighted Israeli authorities’ recent permission for UN observers at the Kissufim crossing as a positive development, enhancing visibility of aid movement.
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