The United Nations is set to enhance humanitarian aid delivery to the Gaza Strip following a recent ceasefire agreement, which has become critical for over 2 million residents reliant on essential supplies. The ceasefire, which took effect on January 20, 2025, aims to bring stability and support to a region devastated by ongoing conflict.
According to Farhan Haq, deputy spokesman for the UN, aid workers are intensifying efforts to provide food, shelter, clean water, and medical supplies. He emphasized that nearly half of Gaza's population consists of children, many of whom currently receive only one meal per day. The UN's Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) is prioritizing the welfare of children in its aid distribution efforts.
The World Health Organization (WHO) has outlined a 60-day plan to augment hospital capacity in both northern and southern Gaza, which includes the deployment of health professionals from abroad. Haq reported that initial aid deliveries have proceeded without significant violence or looting, although the situation remains fluid and requires ongoing monitoring.
The ceasefire agreement also includes a prisoner exchange and aims for a long-term truce, which would involve the withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza. This comes in the wake of a devastating conflict that has resulted in nearly 47,000 Palestinian deaths, predominantly among women and children, and left more than 110,700 injured.
Local health authorities report that the Israeli military actions have led to over 11,000 individuals being reported missing, contributing to one of the most severe humanitarian crises in recent history.
Additionally, the International Criminal Court (ICC) has issued arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, citing war crimes related to the conflict in Gaza. Israel is also facing a genocide case at the International Court of Justice due to its actions in the region.