UN, Red Cross demand opening of all crossings to Gaza to deliver humanitarian aid

The spokesperson for the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA), Jens Lærke, said during a press conference in Geneva that “the humanitarian situation in Gaza is extremely serious, and we need to open all crossings to facilitate the delivery of humanitarian supplies.”

He added that some crossings have been “partially damaged” and require repairs to resume operations.

Meanwhile, Christian Cardon, spokesperson for the International Committee of the Red Cross, stated that “the humanitarian needs in Gaza are immense, and it is essential to ensure the opening of all entry points to deliver vital aid.”

The two officials pointed out that the current ceasefire, reached as part of a peace plan sponsored by the United States, provides an opportunity to intensify humanitarian efforts and bring in aid.

On August 22, the United Nations announced that Gaza was facing famine, warning that about 500,000 people are at "catastrophic" risk, while Israel holds Hamas responsible for the crisis and accuses it of seizing aid.

The UN office confirmed that about 190,000 tons of aid are still waiting for permission to enter the Gaza Strip.

ANHA