“We are encouraged that the parties have reaffirmed their commitment to implementing the ceasefire in Gaza and congratulate him constant efforts of mediators,» declared UN spokesperson, Stéphane Dujarric, during the regular press briefing in New York.
“However, we remain concerned about all acts of violence in Gaza and the reported attacks and strikes that took place yesterday. »
Mr. Dujarric urged all parties to honor their obligations and avoid any action that could lead to a resumption of hostilities, reiterating the Secretary-General’s call for the release of the remains of all deceased hostages.
Over the weekend, Humanitarian Affairs Chief Tom Fletcher concluded his visit to Gaza, where he met with aid workers and inspected UN-supported projects, including a child nutrition center, a hospital and a road clearance operation.
Debris removal in progress
In Gaza City, the United Nations Development Program (UNDP) has launched a major debris removal operation – the first phase of a comprehensive debris management plan aimed at restoring access to essential services such as hospitals and schools.
“The rubble represents a major challenge in Gaza, where the estimated amount is between 55 and 60 million tonnes,» said Jaco Cilliers, UNDP representative in Palestine.
The UN agency is taking a vital first step by clearing roads and recycling materials to pave new access roads and temporary facilities.
Dozens of excavators and other vehicles have been deployed along Al-Jalaa Street, where UNDP says it is working around the clock to open roads that have been blocked for months.
“It is a very arduous process and it will take many years to complete it“, warned Mr. Cilliers.
Opening of emergency passages
UN humanitarians also reported progress in delivering aid under the ceasefire, with the UN agency helping Palestinian refugees (UNRWA) expansion of temporary learning spaces and partners resuming food parcel distributions in Deir al-Balah and Khan Younis.
“During the weekend, we and our partners continued to collect aid from the Kerem Shalom/Karem Abu Salem and Kissufim passages. This included postpartum and hygiene kits, medical supplies, fuel, water and food,” Mr Dujarric said.
He added that on Sunday, for the first time, Israeli authorities authorized the UN to deploy observers at the Kissufim crossing.
“This is of course a welcome development, as it provides us with much-needed visibility into this segment of the pipeline,” added Mr. Dujarric.
Originally published at Almouwatin.com
