UN countries urge Israel's incoming government to open Gaza to unrestricted aid

Fifty-three United Nations member states, along with various organizations, have called on Israel's upcoming government to lift restrictions on aid entering Gaza. The appeal, issued jointly at the UN in New York, comes as shortages of shelter and medical supplies are jeopardizing the health of Palestinians as winter approaches. The plea, spearheaded by Britain, Qatar, and Jordan, demands unrestricted access to all Gaza crossings and land routes, as well as the smooth functioning of humanitarian corridors via Egypt and Jordan.

British Ambassador Sarah MacIntosh, speaking for the coalition, highlighted that while political will can improve the humanitarian situation, current limitations prevent aid delivery at the necessary scale. The shortages are exposing Palestinians to hypothermia, respiratory infections, waterborne diseases, and other preventable illnesses, particularly those living in tents, makeshift shelters, or damaged structures.

The UN Children's Fund estimates that around 1.7 million of Gaza's 2.2 million inhabitants reside in such vulnerable conditions, with nearly a million exposed to flood risks. The coalition urges Israel to safeguard health workers, hospitals, medical transport, and humanitarian facilities. They also urge senior international delegations and journalists to gain access to Gaza.

Recently, Israel bombed Nasser hospital in southern Gaza, killing 10 individuals, making it the deadliest single strike since Israel's elections last month. The hospital, located in Khan Younis, was targeted amidst ongoing strikes by Israel in Gaza, resulting in over 1,600 Palestinian fatalities since the ceasefire began.