Israel has made significant strides in recent weeks regarding the entry of aid into Gaza, according to the U.S. special envoy for humanitarian issues, David Satterfield. However, there is still substantial work to be done as the risk of famine in the region remains very high.
Satterfield refrained from confirming whether the United States is content with Israel’s actions. This comes after President Joe Biden urged Israel to take specific and measurable steps to address the humanitarian crisis in Gaza or face potential conditions on U.S. support.
Highlighting the dire situation, Satterfield emphasized the high risk of famine in Gaza, particularly in the northern areas. He called for intensified efforts to ensure aid reaches those in need in the densely populated Palestinian territory.
Since Israel launched a military offensive against Hamas in October, the United Nations has faced challenges in delivering aid effectively throughout Gaza. The conflict has left much of the region in devastation, worsening the humanitarian situation.
Philippe Lazzarini, head of the U.N. Palestinian refugee agency (UNRWA), reported an increase in the daily average number of trucks entering Gaza in April. He stressed the importance of sustained efforts to have a positive impact on the ground.
Additionally, UNRWA has faced funding challenges, with Israel accusing some of its staff of involvement in attacks that triggered the Gaza war. This led to a pause or suspension of funding from 16 countries amounting to $450 million. Lazzarini noted that UNRWA’s operations are funded until June, but the suspension of U.S. funding until at least March 2025 could have a lasting impact unless temporary solutions are found with other donors stepping in.
Despite these challenges, Lazzarini mentioned the significant support UNRWA has received from public donations, totaling $100 million in the past six months.
