The United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA), responsible for assisting Palestine refugees, has issued a dire warning that the fuel supply in the Gaza Strip is expected to run out within the next three days. This impending crisis puts the region’s humanitarian response at great risk, according to UNRWA Director-General Philippe Lazzarini.
Lazzarini emphasized the devastating consequences of the fuel shortage, stating that without fuel, essential services such as water supply, hospitals, and bakeries will cease to function. In addition, without adequate fuel supply, vital aid will not be able to reach those who are in desperate need of assistance.
“The lack of fuel will further strangle the already vulnerable population of Gaza, including children, women, and the general public,” warned Lazzarini in a statement.
The Gaza Strip, home to over two million people, heavily relies on UNRWA as the largest humanitarian agency operating in the area. With the recent hostilities and ongoing displacement, the number of displaced individuals has exceeded one million, with more than half a million seeking refuge in UNRWA facilities.
Expressing grave concern, Lazzarini stressed that failure to address the fuel shortage will result in a significant failure on the part of the international community to meet the urgent needs of the people of Gaza. He appealed to all parties involved and those with influence over them to immediately allow the entry of fuel supplies into Gaza, with strict oversight to ensure it is solely used to prevent the collapse of essential humanitarian operations.
While UNRWA welcomed the recent entry of a humanitarian convoy into Gaza, Lazzarini declared that this initial effort is far from sufficient. He emphasized the necessity of sustained aid and ongoing support to effectively address the mounting crisis.
In addition, UNRWA released a situation report that highlighted the devastating toll the conflict has taken on their staff members. To date, 29 UNRWA employees have tragically lost their lives, and a further 17 have been injured. Shockingly, half of those killed were dedicated teachers.
The situation report also exposed the harrowing reality that 12 displaced individuals, seeking shelter at UNRWA schools, have lost their lives, while nearly 180 others have sustained injuries.
As the fuel crisis looms ominously, urgent action is needed from all stakeholders to avert a complete collapse of humanitarian operations and prevent further suffering in the Gaza Strip.
