The United Nations announced its readiness to deliver urgent humanitarian aid into the Gaza Strip, where hundreds of thousands have been displaced and essential supplies are rapidly diminishing. The declaration, made on Monday, comes amid growing international concern over the deteriorating conditions for civilians in the besieged territory.
The U.N. agency for Palestinian refugees, UNRWA, confirmed it has pre-positioned critical supplies in anticipation of access. Juliette Touma, a spokesperson for UNRWA, stated that trucks loaded with food, medicine, and water have been strategically placed on the Egyptian side of the Rafah crossing. This crossing is the only entry point into Gaza not under Israeli control.
“We are ready to deliver as soon as there is access and it’s safe for our staff,” Ms. Touma told The New York Times.
The immediate delivery of aid is contingent on securing safe passage for humanitarian workers and ensuring the safety of distribution efforts. UNRWA also reported that a significant portion of the displaced population, approximately 187,518 people, are currently seeking shelter in 83 of its schools across Gaza.
U.N. Secretary-General António Guterres echoed the calls for unhindered humanitarian access to Gaza. He described the humanitarian situation as “extremely dire,” underscoring the urgency of the matter. Guterres specifically appealed for the allowance of vital resources, including fuel, food, water, and medicine, into the territory to alleviate the suffering of its inhabitants.
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