New York:Fifty-three countries and international organizations have called for the expedited and unobstructed delivery of humanitarian and medical aid to the Gaza Strip. They warn of worsening humanitarian and health conditions as winter approaches, amid a critical shortage of shelter and essential supplies.
According to Maan News Agency, the State of Palestine's mission to the United Nations released a statement on the 'X' platform, highlighting a collective call to action on Gaza's health and humanitarian situation led by Britain, Qatar, and Jordan. The statement underscores that the UN Security Council's Resolution 2803 mandates immediate and comprehensive delivery of humanitarian aid to Gaza, at levels no less than those agreed upon on January 19, 2025, a commitment that remains unfulfilled.
The statement warns that many Palestinians in Gaza lack sufficient shelter as winter nears, risking hypothermia, respiratory infections, waterborne diseases, and other preventable illnesses. Restrictions on shelter supplies and life-saving materials are impeding humanitarian organizations' ability to meet the sector's escalating needs.
The participating countries and organizations have urged the upcoming Israeli government to permit the swift and unhindered entry of humanitarian aid throughout Gaza via all crossings and land routes, ensuring the full operation of Egyptian and Jordanian humanitarian corridors. They call for the approval of more basic materials, including those classified by Israel as dual-use, especially shelter, fuel, water, sanitation, and medical supplies.
Additionally, the statement emphasizes restoring medical referrals to hospitals in East Jerusalem and the West Bank for patients who cannot be treated within Gaza. It calls for the protection of health personnel, facilities, and medical transport under international humanitarian law, safeguarding designated humanitarian sites, and initiating transparent investigations into attacks on health and humanitarian workers.
The countries also demand access for high-level international delegations and journalists to the Gaza Strip. They have pledged to support urgent humanitarian efforts by providing winter preparedness supplies, aiming to alleviate population suffering and health risks.
The statement highlights the importance of supporting the Palestinian Authority and collaborating with the National Transitional Committee for Gaza Administration, the UN, and humanitarian partners to restore basic health services and rehabilitate health infrastructure. It stresses the vital role of the UN, the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement, and neutral international humanitarian organizations in delivering aid as per Security Council Resolution 2803.
This international initiative arises amidst the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza, with global demands to facilitate aid entry and provide essential needs, particularly with winter approaching.