UNITED NATIONS: The United Nations has plead for $2.8 billion in aid to assist 3.1 million Palestinians in the besieged Gaza Strip, emphasizing the urgent need for support amid Israeli attacks on Gaza.
Andrea De Domenico, head of the UN humanitarian office for Gaza and the West Bank, stressed the necessity of addressing not only food shortages but also the critical lack of sanitation, water, and healthcare facilities.
De Domenico highlighted the extensive damage to essential infrastructure, including hospitals, water and sanitation facilities, homes, roads, and schools. He said that Gaza currently lacks a standing university due to the destruction. The appeal for funds comes amidst the ongoing Israeli bombardment of Gaza, resulting in the killing of at least 33,833 Palestinians, mostly women and children, and widespread devastation.
The aid request aims to assist 3.1 million people until the end of the year, with a focus on addressing food insecurity, particularly in northern Gaza where famine is imminent. The situation is exacerbated by the destruction caused by Israeli military operations since October 7.
The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) expressed concerns about the rise of reselling humanitarian aid in markets, highlighting the desperate circumstances faced by many in Gaza. The appeal also encompasses the needs of Palestine refugees, with the UN Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) playing a crucial role in delivering assistance.
Clean water access remains a significant concern, with limited operational water pipelines and groundwater wells, exacerbating public health risks. The recent withdrawal of Israeli forces from southern Gaza has raised humanitarian concerns, particularly in Rafah, where over a million people are seeking shelter.
Despite ongoing challenges, humanitarian organizations continue to work tirelessly to provide assistance. The World Health Organization (WHO) has highlighted the urgent need to protect hospitals and deliver essential medical supplies to Gaza. However, obstacles such as access restrictions from Israeli authorities persist, hindering aid efforts.
The appeal for $2.8 billion represents only a portion of the total estimated funding required to address the needs of the most vulnerable Palestinians.
The situation in Gaza underscored the pressing need for international support to alleviate the suffering of millions affected by conflict and humanitarian crises in the region.
