Spokesperson for the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA) Adnan Abu Hasna on Thursday praised Egypt’s efforts to aid the Palestinian people amid Israel’s blockade preventing the entry of assistance into the Gaza Strip.
The UNRWA official said, during a special interview over the phone with Nile News Channel, the Egyptian Red Crescent (ERC) is sending hundreds of trucks daily to Gaza, but Israel is placing obstacles and preventing their entry and delivery to the Palestinian people, which has worsened the humanitarian situation across the territory.
The UNRWA spokesperson strongly condemned new restrictions imposed by Israeli authorities on international non-governmental organizations operating throughout Palestine.
The spokesman said Israel is escalating its systematic campaigns not only against UNRWA, but also against other humanitarian organizations and that preventing these organizations from operating exacerbates the dire conditions in Gaza and the West Bank.
Abu Hasna warned of the danger of a humanitarian collapse in Gaza due to Israel’s decision to block more than 37 humanitarian organizations, which operate independently from UNRWA, from assisting Palestinians affected by Israeli aggression that has lasted for two full years.
He said Israel’s decision flagrantly violates international humanitarian principles.
The UNRWA warning comes amid rising international criticism after Israel announced its intention to suspend the activities of 37 humanitarian organizations, including American groups operating in Gaza, for refusing to provide the names of their Palestinian staff.
The United Nations (UN) described the decision as “shameful,” while the European Union (EU) warned that it would hinder the delivery of aid.
