UNRWA Confirms Blockade and Lack of Clarity on Its Role in Gaza

The United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) reported that it still does not have details on its function within the new Gaza ceasefire agreement and confirmed that it has been blocked from bringing humanitarian aid into the enclave since March.

In a post on its official X account, the agency stated that it has sufficient food supplies to sustain Gaza's population for three months, in addition to a logistical system capable of distributing it safely and on a large scale.

Philippe Lazzarini: “The Ceasefire is an Enormous Relief”

UNRWA's Commissioner-General, Philippe Lazzarini, characterized the agreement guaranteeing a cessation of hostilities and the release of hostages as "an enormous relief."

He further emphasized that the end of the war will bring comfort to those who survived the worst bombings, displacement, and loss of life during the two-year conflict.

Lazzarini stressed that both the hostages and Palestinian detainees will be able to reunite with their families and noted that the agency has its essential supplies ready, including food, medicine, and educational materials.

Over 660,000 Children Await Return to School

The head of the agency added that UNRWA teams in Gaza will be fundamental in implementing the agreement, providing basic services such as health and education.

Simultaneously, he indicated that over 660,000 children are waiting to return to school and that UNRWA's teaching staff is prepared to support them in that process.

The Commissioner-General called on UN member states to support the agency's work during the critical reconstruction period, underscoring that its role is essential for the recovery of the enclave.

UNICEF Warns of Health Crisis and Risks to Children

For its part, the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) urged for aid flow into Gaza to be complete and without restrictions.

On this point, UNICEF warned of a potential increase in child mortality due to the weakening of children's immune systems after months of malnutrition and a lack of medical care.

Israel Announces Withdrawal and Start of Ceasefire

On October 10, the Israeli military announced the completion of its withdrawal from the agreed-upon areas in the Gaza Strip, thereby confirming the official start of the ceasefire.

The declaration of a cessation of hostilities comes two years after an Israeli offensive that resulted in tens of thousands of deaths, mostly women and children, alongside the destruction of hospitals, homes, and essential infrastructure, and the imposition of a blockade that caused famine and extreme humanitarian conditions.