Israeli Authorities Block UNRWA Food Convoys in Gaza
GAZA — In a shocking move, Israeli authorities have informed the United Nations that they will no longer approve the passage of any UN agency for Palestine refugees, UNRWA, food convoys into northern Gaza.
The decision has left UNRWA Commissioner-General Philippe Lazzarini outraged, as he took to social media to express his concerns about the impact on the already dire situation in northern Gaza.
Lazzarini emphasized the critical role UNRWA plays in providing lifesaving assistance to Palestine refugees in Gaza and warned that the ban on food convoys could lead to a man-made famine.
He called for the immediate lifting of the restrictions, highlighting UNRWA’s essential role as the largest relief agency in the region with the ability to reach displaced communities.
World Health Organization (WHO) chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus also condemned the decision, stating that blocking UNRWA from delivering food is denying starving people the ability to survive.
The Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC) report on Gaza Strip has warned of an imminent famine in the northern part of the Strip, affecting around 300,000 people.
UN Secretary General António Guterres, who is currently in the region on a solidarity trip, has described the situation as an “appalling indictment of conditions on the ground for civilians” and called for urgent action to prevent further suffering.
Guterres stressed the need for increased humanitarian aid and access to Gaza, urging Israel to remove obstacles to relief efforts and implement an immediate humanitarian ceasefire.
UNRWA’s Commissioner-General highlighted the potential consequences of funding cuts for Palestine refugees in Gaza and urged the international community to step up support to prevent a humanitarian crisis.
Despite the challenges, Lazzarini expressed gratitude for the support received from US Congress members and Secretary of State Anthony Blinken, emphasizing UNRWA’s commitment to fulfilling its mandate until a lasting political solution is reached.
