“We stand ready to support this implementation and scale up the delivery of sustained humanitarian relief to the countless Palestinians who continue to suffer,” the UN chief stated in a social media post.
He further mentioned: “It is imperative that this ceasefire removes the significant security and political obstacles to delivering aid.”
Per news reports, three Israeli hostages held by Hamas were released and transferred by the Red Cross back to Israel, as the first phase of the ceasefire deal took effect. It is reported that later on Sunday, Israel is expected to release around 90 Palestinian prisoners.
Brokered last week by Qatar, Egypt, and the United States, the three-phase ceasefire comes 15 months after Hamas militants attacked Israel on 7 October 2023. Approximately 1,200 people were killed, and 250 were taken as hostages, with about 100 still being held.
Israel initiated the military campaign following Hamas-led attacks on its territory.
According to Gaza’s health authorities, over 46,000 Palestinians have been killed since the conflict began. The Gaza strip has been left devastated, with its two million inhabitants in dire need of food and other essentials.
The UN hailed the ceasefire and the implementation of the first phase as a crucial step towards peace and alleviating the immense suffering endured by the Palestinian population.
UN News
Shadi Jomaa Abu Sheha inside what’s left of his home in the north of Nuseirat, Gaza.
What remains of ‘home’
In the early morning hours after the ceasefire came into effect, many displaced Palestinians began gradually returning to see what is left of their homes.
Shadi Jumaa Abu Sheha returned to Nuseirat in central Gaza, only to find the dwelling he had built mostly with his own hands “is no longer a home, it is a ruin.”
He was accompanied by a UN News correspondent in Gaza as he assessed the extent of the damage, which had left some of the rooms in ruins, their interiors now exposed to the weather.
Nevertheless, Shadi was grateful that “the bloodshed has stopped”, stating to our correspondent: “This is an indescribable feeling. Thank God we survived this war unharmed. But I cannot describe the extent of the destruction…I do not know what to say.”
Safe access to humanitarian aid needed
The UN World Food Programme (WFP) acted swiftly, with convoys entering Gaza early on Sunday from Egypt and via Ashdod, Israel. The ceasefire allowed the agency to bring in urgently needed food supplies on an unprecedented scale, aiming to prevent starvation in the war-torn region, as stated in a press release.
WFP Executive Director Cindy McCain emphasized the critical nature of this initiative, mentioning that the agency’s aim is to deliver at least 150 truckloads of food into Gaza daily.
“After 15 months of war, we need all border crossings to remain open and function efficiently, effectively, and reliably. And we need humanitarian teams to be able to move freely and safely across Gaza to reach those in need.”
Upcoming health challenges
Meanwhile, the World Health Organization (WHO) expressed its support for the ceasefire and highlighted the massive health challenges that lie ahead.
The conflict has taken a devastating toll: more than 46,600 people killed, over 110,000 injured, and a health system in disarray, as per the agency’s press release.
WHO stressed the urgent need for billions in investment to restore the health infrastructure, calling for the unwavering commitment of donors and the international community.
The UN health agency and its partners are planning to implement a 60-day plan concentrating on trauma and emergency care, primary health care, child health, and other critical areas.
“WHO urges all parties to uphold their commitment to fully implement the ceasefire agreement and to continue working towards a political solution to address the protracted crisis in the occupied Palestinian territory, which is essential for lasting peace,” the agency stated.
Focus on women and girls
UN Women has also applauded the ceasefire and hostage release agreement, expressing hope that all parties will honor their commitments to pave the way for lasting peace for women and girls in Palestine, Israel, and the region.
“The news of the ceasefire brings relief for the 1 million women and girls who have lived under continued bombardment, without safety in Gaza for the last 470 days,” the agency mentioned in a statement.
The agency emphasized the urgent need for humanitarian relief and reaffirmed its dedication to working alongside women’s organizations and the families of Gaza to advocate for inclusive recovery efforts, rights, safety, and dignity.
While these efforts signify a significant step forward, the road to recovery is full of challenges, UN Women stated, urging all parties to uphold the ceasefire and facilitate the safe and efficient delivery of aid.
