The UN Palestinian refugee agency (UNRWA) has issued an urgent appeal for $481 million to address the extensive humanitarian needs arising from the ongoing conflict in the Israeli-besieged Gaza Strip and the occupied West Bank. UNRWA Commissioner-General Philippe Lazzarini emphasized the “unprecedented devastation” in Gaza after a month of tight siege and brutal war, stating that humanitarian needs are rapidly escalating.
The funds are earmarked to provide essential assistance to 1.6 million people in Gaza, encompassing basic food aid, shelter, water, sanitation, health care, and protection. In the Israeli-occupied West Bank, the focus is on delivering basic health care and protection. The situation is exacerbated by the displacement of UNRWA staff, mourning the loss of 99 colleagues amid relentless Israeli bombardments.
Almost half of Gaza’s houses have been reportedly destroyed or damaged, leading to a collective punishment affecting the entire population. Despite increased truck activity, only a limited amount of food, water, and survival items are permitted, compelling around 70% of people to flee their homes. Over 720,000 individuals are seeking refuge in 150 UNRWA shelters, where conditions are dire, with hundreds sharing a single toilet and shower.
Critical to UNRWA’s operations, medical facilities, bakeries, and water stations is the absence of fuel since October 7. In the West Bank, including East Jerusalem, violence persists, particularly in Palestinian refugee camps. Movement restrictions significantly impact livelihoods, contributing to soaring unemployment and poverty levels. Since October 7, at least 44 children have been confirmed killed, underscoring the human toll.
The UNRWA appeal addresses these challenges, aiming to continue providing vital assistance across the Gaza Strip and the West Bank. Funding will support services such as cash assistance, health care, and protection. However, the agency has been grappling with a chronic financial crisis for more than a decade, with uncertainty regarding salary payments for staff until year-end.
UNRWA acknowledges the generous contributions from donors but urges those yet to support the appeal to recognize the escalating needs. Commissioner-General Lazzarini stresses the test this presents to global commitment towards the agency, emphasizing that urgent funding is imperative to fulfill responsibilities to Palestinians in distress.
Meanwhile … On Thursday (Nov 9)
Amid these developments, Israel has announced four-hour pauses in northern Gaza to facilitate civilian evacuations during hostilities. The international community’s response to this appeal is critical, considering the complex ground situation, ongoing conflict, and a death toll surpassing 10,569 individuals, with around 40 percent being children. The need for sustained support for UNRWA is pivotal in addressing the profound humanitarian crisis in the region.