Gaza:The United Nations has appealed for the immediate opening of all crossings into the Gaza Strip to facilitate the delivery of essential winter aid, as recent flooding has displaced thousands and created significant humanitarian needs.
According to Palestine news & Information Agency – WAFA – English, UN Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs and Emergency Relief Coordinator Tom Fletcher emphasized the urgency of mobilizing the international humanitarian community to address Gaza's requirements during the winter. Fletcher noted that the UN had been warning for months about the necessity of bringing essential winter supplies into the region.
Fletcher, in a statement on X, highlighted that several foreign ministers and partners reiterated their support, yet acknowledged that progress remains challenging ahead of the Israeli elections. He insisted that delays due to the formation of a new government are unacceptable under international humanitarian law.
A comprehensive plan has been outlined to provide crucial supplies to Gaza, including durable shelters, warm clothing, blankets, safe heating solutions, fuel, generators, and equipment to remove floodwater, clear rubble, and dispose of unexploded ordnance. Fletcher noted that many risks could be mitigated if adequate shelter and essential supplies were provided and if Palestinians were allowed access to safer areas.
Fletcher called for prompt action, urging the opening of all crossings, the operation of key non-governmental organizations, an end to what he termed collective punishment, and the funding of the winter response plan. Initial estimates suggest that over 200,000 people in Gaza have been impacted by the recent rains and flooding, with more than 40,000 families' shelters damaged and several fatalities reported.