The United Nations (UN) has welcomed Israel’s decision to implement a “local, tactical pause of military activity” in southern Gaza during daylight hours to facilitate humanitarian aid deliveries. However, UN officials emphasize that more substantial measures are needed to address the dire humanitarian situation in the region.
Jens Laerke, spokesman for the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA), expressed cautious optimism about the temporary ceasefire but noted that it has yet to translate into increased aid reaching those in need.
“We welcome this announcement,” Laerke stated in an email to AFP, “but this must lead to further concrete measures by Israel to tackle the longstanding issues hindering a meaningful humanitarian response in Gaza.”
The Gaza Strip, already grappling with severe shortages of food, water, and essential supplies, has seen conditions worsen due to overland access restrictions and the closure of the Rafah crossing with Egypt since Israeli forces seized control in May.
“The humanitarian situation in Gaza is dire,” Laerke emphasized, highlighting widespread hunger and the urgent need for basic necessities such as shelter, healthcare, and sanitation.
UN agencies have reiterated their call for unhindered humanitarian operations throughout Gaza, stressing the importance of predictable aid movement and the removal of logistical and administrative barriers.
“The regular entry of fuel, operational roads, and necessary logistical support are critical,” Laerke asserted, pointing out that these have been historically restricted by Israeli authorities.
Moreover, concerns over the breakdown of law and order in Gaza due to desperation and aid scarcity were also raised, urging immediate attention to restore stability.
The recent escalation in Gaza’s conflict, triggered by Hamas’ attack on October 7 resulting in civilian casualties, has compounded the region’s humanitarian crisis. Israeli military actions in response have led to a significant loss of life, predominantly civilian, according to Gaza’s health ministry.
As diplomatic efforts continue to navigate the complex dynamics, the UN remains committed to facilitating essential aid and restoring basic services to mitigate the suffering of Gaza’s vulnerable population.