UN Urges Reopening Of All Gaza Crossings To Boost Humanitarian Aid Efforts

The United Nations has urged the reopening of all crossings into the Gaza Strip. This move aims to significantly increase humanitarian aid delivery and improve the severe conditions on the ground. Stéphane Dujarric, spokesperson for the UN Secretary-General, highlighted the readiness of UN teams and partners for this critical task.

Dujarric emphasised that without international NGOs, the humanitarian community cannot provide necessary assistance. Currently, Israeli authorities are not issuing visas to several NGOs and are blocking many from sending supplies into Gaza. Despite these challenges, teams inside Gaza are maximising opportunities during the ceasefire.

On a recent Tuesday, 21 UN partners distributed approximately 960,000 meals through 175 community kitchens. Additionally, UN-supported bakeries produced over 100,000 loaves of bread weighing two kilograms each. UNICEF also distributed more than one million baby diapers to families in need.

The World Health Organization (WHO) played a crucial role by delivering three truckloads of surgical and medical supplies from its warehouses in Deir al-Balah to Gaza City's central pharmacy. WHO has also sent an international emergency medical team to enhance orthopaedic surgery and trauma care in Gaza.

To further support medical needs, WHO established two new operating rooms and plans to add 120 inpatient beds at Al-Shifa Hospital. This expansion aims to increase the hospital's capacity to treat patients effectively during this crisis.

UN teams have cleared main roads leading to the Erez and Zikim crossings in northern Gaza. This preparation is crucial for their potential reopening, which would enable direct aid delivery to severely affected northern areas. Other teams are assessing the Salah al-Din road, which has been unused for months.

Primary Humanitarian Needs

Dujarric stressed that access to water remains a primary need for people in Gaza, along with food, shelter, and debris removal. Addressing these needs is essential for improving living conditions in the region.

The ongoing efforts by UN teams highlight their commitment to alleviating suffering in Gaza despite numerous obstacles. Their work continues as they strive to provide essential aid and support where it is most needed.

With inputs from WAM