The United Nations announced that it tried to coordinate eight humanitarian missions on Friday, with five being fully facilitated. The other three, including one aimed at reaching a water treatment plant in Khan Younis, were denied by Israel.
Saving lives, beating famine
The successful missions collected food and medical supplies from the Kerem Shalom/Karem Abu Salem crossing. Teams also monitored humanitarian cargo at the Kissufim and Kerem Shalom loading platforms. UN Spokesperson Stéphane Dujarric, speaking in New York, highlighted that four months have passed since the ceasefire agreement took effect in Gaza. The humanitarian efforts have saved countless lives and pushed back famine. However, many people continue to live in harsh conditions, and the humanitarian response faces significant obstacles, particularly concerning the entry of goods and the operational ability of humanitarian partners.
Durable housing solutions needed
Almost 1.5 million people, or two in three Palestinians in Gaza, are residing in 1,000 displacement sites across the Strip and in tents. Hundreds of families have also taken shelter in damaged buildings, which are at risk of collapse. Humanitarians are providing the population with tents, tarpaulins, mattresses, clothes, and other items, reaching over 85,000 families in January alone. “But these items offer limited protection and their lifespan is short,” stated Mr. Dujarric. “To provide more durable solutions, restrictions on the entry of essential construction materials and equipment must be lifted.”
Leave a Reply