Gaza: Hamish Young, UNICEF's Senior Emergency Coordinator, emphasized that the quality of humanitarian aid entering the Gaza Strip is as crucial as its quantity. In an interview with Anadolu Agency, he stressed the necessity of allowing unrestricted entry of all essential supplies to address the growing humanitarian needs in the region.
According to Palestine News and Information Agency - WAFA, Young pointed out the urgent requirement for items such as tents, plastic sheeting, and clean drinking water. He highlighted the critical need for fuel and equipment necessary for water production and distribution, as well as pipes to repair wells and desalination plants. Speaking while waiting with his team for aid trucks near the Kissufim crossing, Young revealed that 50 trucks were on standby to deliver essential medical supplies and hygiene items crucial for saving children's lives.
Since the ceasefire on October 10, Israel has permitted 653 aid trucks to enter Gaza, a figure significantly lower than the 600 trucks per day initially agreed upon. On a recent Sunday, 173 aid trucks, including three carrying cooking gas and six with fuel, were allowed entry. However, no aid entered on Monday and Tuesday, with 480 trucks entering on Wednesday.
Young described the situation in Gaza as catastrophic, with all hospitals destroyed or severely damaged and residents facing severe shortages of food and shelter. He stressed the urgent need for a significant amount of food supplies to combat famine in northern Gaza and underscored the critical nature of UNICEF's efforts in providing support to children in dire need.
The UN official called for the daily entry of 600 trucks loaded with supplies, including materials from private sector and commercial suppliers, alongside vital humanitarian aid from organizations like UNICEF, the World Food Programme, the United Nations Population Fund, and the World Health Organization. Young also noted the necessity for about 50 trucks of fuel daily, including cooking gas, which is essential for Gaza's population.
Additionally, Young emphasized that safe access within the Strip is a prerequisite for effective aid distribution, asserting the need for freedom of movement throughout Gaza to deliver supplies to the most vulnerable children and the families who care for them.