Fuel is essential for operating machinery in vital areas like water, sanitation, hygiene, health, and rubble clearance.
Education, nutrition, and protection efforts will also benefit from this diesel supply, according to OCHA, highlighting that 75% went to the southern region and 25% to the north.
Recent UN data reveals that since the month’s start, UN partners have provided food aid to over 250,000 people, distributing two food parcels per family.
However, one month into the ceasefire, the UN World Food Programme (WFP) reported that families in Gaza face challenges in rebuilding their lives.
Northern crossing finally open
Israeli authorities confirmed the reopening of the critical Zikim crossing for humanitarian cargo into the devastated northern Gaza Strip.
“In the past weeks, we’ve been fixing the road to Zikim within Gaza to prepare for this reopening, and now we’re conducting final inspections – including for possible explosive threats,” said UN Spokesperson Stéphane Dujarric in New York.
Zikim had been closed for two months, halting direct supply entry into northern Gaza.
As humanitarian efforts increase, supported by the commercial sector and country donors, market prices for basic goods are stabilizing, noted Mr. Dujarric.
Americas lose measles-free status as outbreaks surge
The Americas have lost their measles-free status as health authorities confirmed the virus circulating in Canada for over a year.
The region, the first globally to eliminate measles twice, has seen a significant rise in cases, with over 12,000 confirmed cases in ten countries this year, mostly in Canada, Mexico, and the US. Twenty-eight deaths were reported, 23 in Mexico.
Canada’s outbreak started in late 2024, spreading nationwide with ongoing transmission in several provinces. Most cases occurred among unvaccinated individuals, most affecting young children.
Resistance falling
Health experts warn that declining vaccination rates increase community vulnerability.
Regional coverage for the second measles vaccine dose is at 79%, well below the 95% needed to prevent outbreaks.
The UN health agency’s regional office, the Pan American Health Organization, stated the setback is “reversible” if countries enhance immunization efforts and outbreak responses.
Measles, among the most contagious viruses, can lead to severe issues like pneumonia, brain inflammation, blindness, and death.
Officials expressed confidence that, with renewed cooperation, the region could eliminate measles again.
UN migration agency aids Brazil tornado recovery
A UN emergency team is assisting communities in southern Brazil recovering from a severe tornado that hit Rio Bonito do Iguaçu on 7 November, killing seven and injuring over 800.
Winds up to 250 km/h destroyed nearly 90% of the town’s urban area, demolishing homes, schools, and health facilities, and cutting off power and water.
Hundreds of families lost shelter, leading the state government to declare an emergency.
Specialists deployed
The UN migration agency, IOM, has sent 11 specialists to collaborate with local and federal authorities to coordinate relief, provide temporary housing, and ensure social support access. The agency aims to help families rebuild with dignity while fortifying communities against future disasters.
IOM also supported recovery in nearby Rio Grande do Sul, where last year’s severe floods displaced thousands.
They stated both disasters highlight the increasing threat of extreme weather due to climate change and the urgent need for stronger preparedness and resilience.
“As extreme weather events grow more common, our mission is to ensure no one is left behind,” said IOM’s head in Brazil, Paolo Caputo.
Leave a Reply