The United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA) has raised concerns about the practicality of certain aid items sent to Gaza. Tamira Alrifai, the spokesperson for UNRWA, noted that while the donations, including rice and lentils, were generously given, they are challenging to use due to the scarcity of fresh water and fuel required for cooking.
From Amman, during a video call to a UN briefing in Geneva, Alrifai mentioned that out of the 54 aid trucks that have recently entered Gaza, some contained these food items. She compared this to the 500 trucks that would typically deliver aid and commercial goods daily during more peaceful times.
She emphasized the importance of coordinating with local humanitarian groups and the Egyptian Red Crescent to ensure that the aid sent is both needed and usable. Alrifai commended the significant donations from various nations, particularly Arab countries, that have been sent to Gaza via the Rafah crossing in Egypt.
Alrifai further stressed the need for improved coordination among humanitarian groups to ensure that the most essential items are prioritized. She also mentioned that UN negotiators still face significant challenges in fully addressing Gaza’s aid requirements.
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