UN Aid Chief: World is Failing Gaza Civilians
The UN’s top official overseeing aid in Gaza, Sigrid Kaag, has criticised the international community for its failure to meet the urgent needs of innocent civilians. Speaking to the BBC, Kaag, who has been responsible for improving aid delivery for the past nine months, described the situation in Gaza as a “significant catastrophe.” She is set to present a sombre report to the UN Security Council, highlighting the ongoing challenges in the territory.
Aid Systems in Place, But Challenges Persist
Kaag explained that while systems for delivering aid through land and sea routes have been established, the region remains highly unsafe for humanitarian workers. She described Gaza as “the most unsafe place in the world to work.” Despite these challenges, the UN continues its efforts, with staff risking their lives daily. However, she warned that substantial improvements would not be possible without a ceasefire.
Deconfliction Measures Falling Short
The UN official also expressed frustration with deconfliction efforts, which aim to ensure the safe passage of aid missions. Kaag said these measures are either failing or working insufficiently, making it difficult for operations to succeed. Last week, Israeli forces blocked a UN aid convoy, and a UN school used as a shelter was hit by an airstrike, killing 18 people. Israel later claimed Hamas had used the facility for military purposes.
Heavy Toll on Aid Workers
Kaag highlighted the devastating toll on aid workers, with nearly 300 killed so far, two-thirds of them UN staff. The conflict in Gaza, now approaching its one-year mark, has made it one of the deadliest places for humanitarian workers. Despite these dangers, the UN remains committed to supporting the people of Gaza, even as political and logistical obstacles mount.
Talks with Israeli Officials
In her discussions with Israeli officials, including Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Kaag described the talks as “constructive,” but noted that there is often a gap between commitments and actual implementation. She stressed that “there is not a second to lose” in delivering aid, as the situation for Gaza’s civilians remains dire. Israeli authorities, however, continue to argue that enough aid is being provided to the territory.
Food Insecurity and Malnutrition Concerns
Kaag also addressed concerns about severe food insecurity in Gaza, despite Israeli claims that enough aid is reaching the region. UN surveys indicate that the majority of Gaza’s population is food insecure, with malnutrition rates, particularly among children, rising steadily. Kaag acknowledged the difficulty of ensuring all aid reaches those in need but reaffirmed the UN’s commitment to delivering support with integrity.
Follow us on Socials: