The UN Security Council has recently recognized the efforts made by Israel to increase the flow of humanitarian aid into the Gaza Strip. This includes opening cargo flows through the Erez crossing for the first time since the war began and delivering aid through the port of Ashdod. However, the Council also urged Israel to take further steps to ensure continuous access to humanitarian aid in Gaza.
In a joint statement, UN Security Council member countries emphasized the need for Israel to remove obstacles that are hindering the supply of humanitarian aid to Gaza. Members of the Council expressed deep concern about the human cost of the conflict and the dire humanitarian situation in Gaza. They also warned that if famine were to occur in Gaza, it would have catastrophic consequences not only for Palestinians but also for neighboring countries and beyond.
Major General Rasan Alian, who coordinates government activities in territories, attributed delays in aid delivery to inefficiencies within UNRWA’s operations. He reported that despite these challenges, Israel has successfully delivered over 1,200 trucks of humanitarian aid to Gaza over three days. An additional 500 trucks are waiting at Kerem Shalom checkpoint to enter.
Major General Alian called on all parties involved in this crisis to work together towards addressing its humanitarian aspects. He urged UNRWA and other international organizations operating within Gaza Strip to expedite their distribution efforts, rather than placing blame on Israel for perceived shortcomings. The coordinator emphasized that timely assistance is critical for ensuring that vulnerable populations receive essential supplies they need.
In summary, while there have been some positive developments regarding increased accessibility of humanitarian aid into Gaza Strip, more needs must be done by all parties involved towards resolving this crisis’s root causes and ensuring sustained accessibility of critical resources necessary for survival.
