Is the UN's Humanitarian Scale-up in Gaza Truly Underway?
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Synopsis
The humanitarian crisis in Gaza is escalating, but the UN is stepping up its efforts. As vital supplies start to flow into the region, millions of lives hang in the balance. What does this mean for those suffering in Gaza? Read on to learn about the UN's ambitious plans to deliver essential aid.
Key Takeaways
- The UN's humanitarian scale-up is in progress.
- Cooking gas has entered Gaza for the first time since March.
- Over 190,000 metric tonnes of aid has been approved.
- Plans involve reaching millions in need with food and medical supplies.
- The ceasefire is crucial for facilitating humanitarian access.
United Nations, October 13 (NationPress) The humanitarian scale-up by the UN in the Gaza Strip is actively progressing, as cooking gas has entered Gaza for the first time since March, according to the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA).
Throughout Sunday, additional tents for families displaced by the conflict, frozen meat, fresh fruits, flour, and medicines made their way into Gaza, as reported in a press release by OCHA.
The United Nations and its partners have provided hundreds of thousands of hot meals and bread bundles to both northern and southern regions of Gaza, the office stated.
OCHA has obtained Israeli approval for more aid to proceed, increasing the amount in its approved pipeline to 190,000 metric tonnes, encompassing food, shelter items, medical supplies, and other essential resources, as reported by the Xinhua news agency.
"This is merely the initial phase," the office expressed, noting that under its plan for the first 60 days of the ceasefire in Gaza, the United Nations and its partners intend to broaden the scale and scope of operations to deliver life-saving aid and services to nearly all residents of Gaza.
During a press briefing on Thursday, UN Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs and Emergency Relief Coordinator Tom Fletcher stated that in the initial 60 days of the ceasefire, humanitarian efforts aim to boost the supply pipeline to hundreds of trucks daily, with a goal of delivering 170,000 metric tonnes of food, medicine, and other supplies.
He emphasized that the United Nations plans to enhance food distribution across Gaza, aiming to assist 2.1 million individuals in need of food aid and approximately 500,000 people requiring nutritional support; restore the healthcare system, including the reestablishment of community-level disease monitoring; provide water and sanitation services to 1.4 million people; significantly increase shelter availability; and reopen temporary educational facilities to engage 700,000 children of school age.
The ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas took effect on Friday, following three days of intense negotiations in Sharm el-Sheikh, Egypt, mediated by Egypt, Qatar, Turkey, and the United States.
Point of View
It is imperative that we recognize the significant challenges faced by the people of Gaza. The UN's humanitarian efforts are a beacon of hope amidst turmoil, and it is crucial that we support these initiatives to ensure the delivery of life-saving aid to all those in need.
NationPress
13/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the current status of humanitarian aid in Gaza?
The UN is actively increasing its humanitarian efforts in Gaza, with essential supplies like cooking gas, food, and medical supplies now entering the region.
How many people are expected to benefit from the UN's aid?
The UN plans to reach approximately 2.1 million individuals in need of food aid and 500,000 requiring nutrition support across Gaza.
What are the key components of the UN's plan?
The plan includes increasing food distribution, restoring healthcare services, providing water and sanitation solutions, and reopening educational spaces for children.
How is the ceasefire affecting humanitarian efforts?
The ceasefire between Israel and Hamas has allowed for a significant increase in humanitarian aid and cooperation, promoting the delivery of essential supplies.
Who are the key mediators in the ceasefire agreement?
The ceasefire was mediated by Egypt, Qatar, Turkey, and the United States, facilitating a much-needed pause in hostilities to allow for humanitarian access.
