Gaza – The United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) stated today that access to humanitarian aid within Gaza, including its own assistance, facilities, and public infrastructure, remains severely restricted or entirely prohibited.
The agency reported that the Israeli military has a presence in more than half of the Gaza Strip, exceeding what it described as a ‘yellow line’ whose boundaries remain ambiguously defined. UNRWA emphasized that ongoing Israeli airstrikes and shelling continue in the vicinity of this ‘yellow line’ within the Gaza Strip, resulting in casualties.
The restrictions on access are significantly hindering efforts to provide vital assistance to the civilian population, who are already facing dire conditions due to the ongoing conflict. UNRWA has repeatedly called for safe and unimpeded access to all areas of Gaza to ensure the delivery of essential supplies and services.
The agency reiterated its commitment to providing humanitarian assistance to Palestinian refugees in Gaza, but stressed that its ability to do so is severely compromised by the prevailing security situation and access constraints. The continued restrictions raise serious concerns about the humanitarian consequences for the already vulnerable population within the Gaza Strip.
UNRWA continues to monitor the situation closely and is working with all relevant parties to advocate for improved access and the protection of civilians. The agency urges an immediate cessation of hostilities and the establishment of a safe and secure environment for humanitarian operations.
