Tom Fletcher, the UN’s top aid official, announced the development of trucks containing lifesaving food, medicine, and tents for Gazans who have been affected by continuous Israeli bombardment for over 15 months.
The UN emergency relief chief is set to join an aid convoy entering northern Gaza, after holding discussions with Israeli authorities in Tel Aviv and Jerusalem to ensure the flow of UN aid into the region. This includes working with COGAT and the Israel Foreign Ministry.
Clearing rubble to live
According to OCHA, more than half a million people have returned to north Gaza since the ceasefire began. UNICEF reports that the needs for food, water, sanitation, healthcare, and tents are immense, with some people returning to clear rubble with shovels.
WHO has received 63 trucks of medical supplies for Gaza, while over 100 sick and injured patients have been evacuated to Egypt for urgent treatment since the ceasefire. OCHA states that health services are being provided throughout the Strip, with additional ambulances strengthening emergency response capacity.
Food production boosted
WFP-supported bakeries are operational across Gaza, providing nutrient supplements to children and pregnant or breastfeeding women. More than 30,000 children under five have been screened for malnutrition, with cases of acute malnutrition identified. FAO distributed animal feed to support herders in Deir al Balah and Khan Younis, and learning spaces have been established for school-aged children.
Ceasefire push
The aid efforts coincide with the Secretary-General’s push for a permanent ceasefire in Gaza and the release of remaining hostages. He emphasizes the importance of avoiding ethnic cleansing and reaffirming the two-State solution. The High Commissioner for human rights also emphasizes that any deportation or forced transfer without legal basis is strictly prohibited.
