WFP Denounces Israeli Assault on Humanitarian Convoy
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United Nations, Jan 7 (NationPress) The World Food Programme (WFP) has issued a strong condemnation of the Israeli forces' shooting at its aid convoy in the Gaza Strip, as reported by a UN spokesman, who urged all involved parties to ensure the safe passage of humanitarian assistance across the region.
In an official statement, the WFP expressed outrage over the shocking incident that occurred on Sunday, when a convoy clearly marked as a WFP vehicle was fired upon by Israeli troops near the Wadi Gaza checkpoint, jeopardizing the safety of personnel and rendering the vehicles inoperable, according to the Xinhua news agency.
According to the statement, the convoy comprised three vehicles with eight staff members on board and was subjected to hostile fire despite having received all requisite clearances from the Israeli authorities. At least 16 bullets impacted the vehicles; however, fortunately, no staff members sustained injuries during the incident.
Stephane Dujarric, spokesperson for the UN chief, stated at a daily briefing, “The World Food Programme urges all parties to adhere to international humanitarian law, protect civilians, and ensure the safe passage of humanitarian aid into and throughout Gaza.”
The WFP indicated that this unacceptable event is merely the latest instance of the perilous and complex working environment faced by it and other humanitarian organizations.
Meanwhile, the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) reported that armed looting of humanitarian convoys occurred over the weekend in southern and central Gaza, with four incidents reported in the south, affecting numerous truckloads of supplies and endangering drivers.
In one instance, 43 out of 74 trucks were looted along the Ar-Rasheed coastal road in the Al-Mawasi region, west of Rafah. Eight fuel trucks were taken, with only two having been recovered so far.
OCHA reported, “This leaves the humanitarian community with around 50,000 liters of fuel available to support essential services — which is less than two days’ worth.” The organization emphasized that Israel must expedite the flow of aid, fuel, and commercial goods into and within Gaza through multiple entry points and allow civilian police to operate to restore public order.
OCHA stressed that civilians and civilian infrastructure, including humanitarian workers, convoys, and assets, must be safeguarded under international humanitarian law.
