The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) has called upon Israel to rescind its ban on food deliveries to the northern Gaza Strip from the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA).
At a UN briefing in Geneva on Tuesday, OCHA spokesman Jens Laerke voiced concern, stating that the people of Gaza are facing the dire prospect of famine due to the blockade.
Laerke emphasized the need for Israel to adhere to international law and permit UNRWA's food convoys to proceed, urging the reversal of the decision.
Israel announced on Monday its decision to cease cooperation with UNRWA in Gaza, alleging the agency's involvement in the conflict. UNRWA, which provides essential services to Palestinians including healthcare and education, was previously accused by Israel of having ties to a Palestinian resistance operation against Israel in response to its actions in Gaza.
This move against UNRWA prompted several donor countries, including the United States and EU members, to suspend financial support, exacerbating the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
The situation in Gaza remains dire, with reports from UNICEF spokesman James Elder describing severe malnutrition among children and obstacles to delivering life-saving aid due to the blockade imposed by Israel.
Israel's actions have drawn criticism from humanitarian agencies and the international community, who emphasize the urgency of addressing the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and ensuring access to essential aid for its residents.
