Ramiz Alakbarov, Deputy Special Coordinator for the Middle East Peace Process, provided an update during his quarterly briefing on Council Resolution 2334 (2016), which calls on Israel to cease its settlement activities in the occupied Palestinian territory. He stated that the UN was supporting the ceasefire.
The truce, effective since October, is based on a plan presented by US President Donald Trump, with mediation by the US, Egypt, Qatar, and Turkey. Speaking from Jerusalem, Alakbarov urged Israel and Hamas to fully implement the ceasefire, exercise maximum restraint, and adhere to international law, including relevant UN resolutions. “Ceasefire must be consolidated to enable recovery and reconstruction in Gaza,” he said.
Meanwhile, winterization efforts are underway, and the UN is distributing tents, blankets, and other essential supplies. Conditions remain disastrous, with an increasing risk of hypothermia. Tragically, the first hypothermia-related death of a two-week-old newborn from Khan Younis was confirmed. He emphasized the importance of preserving and expanding the operational space of the UN and its humanitarian partners, particularly through the renewal of NGO registration.
Alakbarov expressed deep concern about the humanitarian situation in the enclave. “Although hunger has improved due to increased aid and commercial food products, major sources of protein remain out of reach for most, alongside serious shortages of drinking water, medical care, and shelter,” he stated. He called on all parties to allow full and unhindered entry of humanitarian assistance as access remains restricted and convoys face challenges.
Heavy rains worsen already dire conditions in Gaza, UN deputy spokesperson Farhan Haq reported. “Our partners report severe flooding of more than 40 designated emergency shelters,” he said. Latest estimates indicate around 700 tents have been damaged or affected, impacting thousands. Crews are working to clear blocked pipes and pump floodwaters away from shelters.
Despite challenges, the UN and its partners strive to meet needs across Gaza. On Monday, they coordinated nine humanitarian expeditions with Israeli authorities; four were facilitated, three completed despite hindrances. “These missions allowed us to collect essentials at Kerem Shalom and Zikim crossings, including food, fuel, blankets, tents, and winter clothing,” Haq said. Two missions faced difficulties, with one partially accomplished.
Haq explained that humanitarians continue supporting affected families through a rapid response system for flood warnings, involving UN agencies and NGOs distributing tents, tarpaulins, warm clothing, blankets, and dignity kits. Last Saturday, 7.5 kilos of high-energy biscuits were provided per household to over 1,000 families in regions hit by torrential rains. Distribution of veterinary kits resumed on Sunday after a weather-related pause. Since December 9, 400 breeders have received kits and animal fodder.
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