United Nations Humanitarian Coordinator for the Occupied Palestinian Territory, Muhannad Hadi, has expressed his excitement for what he described as signs of recovery in the ongoing humanitarian challenges in Gaza just after the recent ceasefire agreement.
Hadi said it was a different atmosphere compared to his previous visits over the past year. He pointed out that the people were returning to their place of origin as the once deserted street had become a busy place. Adding that there is a bit more law and order compared to the times before, when he visited Gaza.
The World Food Programme (WFP) communal kitchen in Khan Younis is said to be active as families rely on the meals provided to survive, without which most would have starved.
Hadi pointed out that the reliance on humanitarian aid remains a source of frustration for many residents. Many hope to return to their homes and be able to generate an income.
Hadi emphasised the need to prioritise sustainable recovery efforts such as agriculture projects and other opportunities.
Despite progress, Hadi acknowledged the challenges in maintaining and scaling up aid delivery. “The reason I don’t like to focus on trucks is simply that there are a lot of services that the people of Gaza need that you don’t load on trucks: protection, psychosocial support, education itself.” He also added, “We need to make sure right now that we focus on bringing in as much humanitarian aid as we can.”
Hadi also highlighted the critical role of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA), saying it is not easy to replace UNRWA, and they hoping that they will continue operating and also in the areas of education, health, and logistics support.
UNRWA employs 13,000 people in Gaza. It is the second-largest employer in Gaza after the Palestinian authorities.
