Aid Surging into Gaza ‘at Scale’ but Massive Needs Remain: OCHA, WHO
January 21, 2025
Gaza Strip, Palestine – A massive influx of aid is pouring into the Gaza Strip following a devastating 11-day conflict with Israel, but humanitarian organizations warn that needs remain enormous.
According to the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA), aid is “surging at scale” into Gaza, with trucks carrying food, medical supplies, and construction materials crossing into the enclave daily.
“We are seeing a huge response from the international community,” said Jens Laerke, spokesperson for OCHA. “The aid is coming in, but the needs are also still there.”
The World Health Organization (WHO) reports that over 160 people were killed and 1,200 injured during the conflict. Hospitals in Gaza were overwhelmed, and many medical facilities were damaged or destroyed.
“The health system has been pushed to the brink,” said Gerald Rockenschaub, head of WHO’s office in Gaza. “We are working around the clock to provide essential services to the injured and vulnerable.”
OCHA estimates that over 2,000 homes were destroyed and 15,000 damaged during the conflict. Hundreds of thousands of people have been displaced, and many are living in temporary shelters or with host families.
“The scale of destruction is staggering,” said Laerke. “We are working closely with partners to provide shelter, food, and other essentials to those who have lost everything.”
The aid community is also concerned about the long-term impact of the conflict. Gaza has been under Israeli blockade for over 15 years, and poverty and unemployment rates are already high.
“The conflict has only exacerbated the already dire humanitarian situation in Gaza,” said Laerke. “We need to ensure that we are not only addressing the immediate needs but also investing in the recovery and resilience of the people of Gaza.”
International donors have pledged hundreds of millions of dollars to support the humanitarian response in Gaza. The United States has pledged $235 million, while the European Union has pledged $112 million.
However, humanitarian organizations warn that funding needs will likely continue for months or even years to come.
“We need to be prepared for a long road ahead,” said Rockenschaub. “The people of Gaza have suffered immensely, and they need our continued support.”
Aid surging into Gaza ‘at scale’ but massive needs remain: OCHA, WHO
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