Humanitarians underscore need for urgent and sustained support in Gaza
2025-02-17
GAZA CITY, Occupied Palestinian Territory –Humanitarian organizations are urgently appealing for increased and sustained support to address the escalating humanitarian crisis in the Gaza Strip, where years of conflict, blockade, and economic hardship have left the population struggling to meet their basic needs.
In a joint statement issued today, 14 humanitarian organizations expressed deep concern over the deteriorating situation in Gaza, which has been compounded by the recent escalation in violence. They emphasized that urgent action is needed to prevent further suffering and ensure the protection and well-being of the civilian population.
“The people of Gaza have endured years of hardship and deprivation,” said Hady Amr, the UN’s Deputy Special Coordinator for the Middle East Peace Process. “The recent escalation in violence has only exacerbated an already dire humanitarian situation, leaving families without homes, access to essential services, or means of income.”
The organizations highlighted that the blockade imposed on Gaza by Israel since 2007 has severely restricted the movement of people and goods, leading to chronic shortages of essential supplies, including food, fuel, and medicine. The blockade has also crippled the local economy, with unemployment rates soaring and poverty widespread.
“The people of Gaza are trapped in a cycle of poverty and dependency,” said Adnan Abu Hasna, Director of Oxfam in the Occupied Palestinian Territory. “They are unable to rebuild their lives or provide for their families due to the restrictions imposed on them. The blockade must be lifted to allow for the free flow of humanitarian aid and economic recovery.”
The organizations also called for an end to the ongoing violence in Gaza, which has claimed the lives of dozens of Palestinians and injured hundreds more. They emphasized that all parties must respect international law and take all necessary measures to protect civilians.
“The people of Gaza deserve to live in peace and dignity,” said Ayed Abu Eqtaish, Director of the Palestinian Center for Human Rights. “They have a right to self-determination, freedom of movement, and access to essential services. The international community must act now to end the blockade and support a just and lasting solution to the conflict in Gaza.”
The humanitarian organizations urged donors to increase their financial support for humanitarian programs in Gaza and to press for an end to the blockade. They also called on the international community to work towards a political solution that addresses the root causes of the conflict and ensures the rights of the Palestinian people.
“The people of Gaza cannot wait any longer,” said Irene Knap, Head of EU Cooperation in the West Bank and Gaza Strip. “Urgent and sustained support is needed now to address the immediate humanitarian crisis and to lay the foundations for a more just and sustainable future for all Palestinians.”
Humanitarians underscore need for urgent and sustained support in Gaza
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