Gaza ceasefire after weekend violence allows humanitarian aid in again: UN

The United Nations has expressed relief as a fragile ceasefire in Gaza was reinstated following a weekend of renewed violence, allowing humanitarian aid to flow once more. UN spokesperson Stephane Dujarric, representing Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, emphasized the importance of upholding the truce and protecting civilians. ‘We commend the mediators’ efforts and urge all parties to avoid actions that could reignite hostilities,’ Dujarric stated. He also reiterated calls for the release of deceased hostages’ remains. The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) reported the successful distribution of food parcels to thousands of families in Deir al-Balah and Khan Younis, marking a significant step in addressing Gaza’s dire needs. Additionally, Israeli authorities permitted UN monitors at the Kissufim crossing, enhancing oversight of aid delivery. UN Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs Tom Fletcher concluded his Gaza visit, witnessing UNICEF nutrition centers and UNDP road clearance projects. Fletcher later met with Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas in Ramallah to discuss Gaza’s humanitarian crisis, the 60-day aid scale-up plan, and the broader peace process. In Jerusalem, Fletcher convened with the UN humanitarian country team, including representatives from 200 NGOs. A $6.5 million contribution from Australia’s Minderoo Foundation was announced to support Gaza’s relief efforts. Meanwhile, in the West Bank, OCHA documented 71 settler attacks during the olive harvest season, highlighting ongoing tensions and violence.