DaysofPal- The United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA) has warned that the humanitarian crisis in the Gaza Strip remains severe, calling for expanded aid delivery rather than additional restrictions on relief operations.
UNRWA Director of Communications Jonathan Fowler said on Sunday that Gaza’s needs are growing despite the ongoing ceasefire, urging the Israeli occupation to avoid measures that further limit the work of international humanitarian organizations.
Speaking to Anadolu Agency, Fowler stressed that restrictions on registration and operations are undermining life-saving assistance at a time when conditions on the ground continue to worsen.
Fowler pointed to persistent fatalities, acute shortages of basic supplies, and widespread human suffering across the enclave. He said harsh winter conditions have intensified the crisis, with storms and low temperatures contributing to increased respiratory illnesses, particularly among children and other vulnerable groups.
Children, Fowler said, have been disproportionately affected by the conflict, noting that Gaza now records the world’s highest rate of limb amputations among minors.
While UNRWA has maintained educational programs and mental health support since October 2023, he said these efforts fall far short of addressing the long-term physical and psychological trauma faced by the population.
Addressing newly imposed registration requirements for international organizations, Fowler warned that the measures further complicate humanitarian operations.
He emphasized that under international law, an occupying power is required to facilitate humanitarian assistance, stressing that Gaza remains an occupied territory.
“What Gaza needs now is a substantial increase in humanitarian aid, as anticipated when the ceasefire came into effect,” Fowler said.
Israeli occupation previously announced the suspension of 37 organizations beginning January 1, 2026, with their operations set to be fully terminated by March 1.
The move was justified because the organizations failed to submit staff information and comply with new security-related registration rules.
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