“We must be allowed to do our jobs: we have the teams, the plan, the supplies and the experience,” declared UN humanitarian chief Tom Fletcher on Wednesday, as he passionately demanded unfettered access for aid into the Gaza Strip. His call comes amidst “horrifying scenes” of Gazans being killed while seeking food aid, highlighting the immense challenges faced by humanitarian organizations.
The critical need for unimpeded aid delivery is underscored by the temporary closure of facilities operated by the US and Israeli-backed Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF). This decision follows a series of deadly incidents near its distribution centers, including the tragic killing of 27 people in southern Gaza on Tuesday. The Israeli army has also designated roads to these centers as “combat zones,” further obstructing aid efforts.
Fletcher unequivocally stated that the civilian deaths are the “outcome of a series of deliberate choices that have systematically deprived two million people of the essentials they need to survive.” He highlighted the overwhelming burden on emergency medical teams and the systemic nature of the crisis.
Echoing UN chief Antonio Guterres, Fletcher demanded immediate independent investigations and accountability. He called for the “open[ing of] the crossings — all of them,” the lifting of all restrictions on aid, and the implementation of a ceasefire to enable the UN to deliver critical assistance at scale and prevent further humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza.