Israeli Aid Stalled: UN Agencies Criticized for Delayed Distribution at Kerem Shalom Crossing
Over 450 trucks awaiting clearance at the Palestinian side of the Kerem Shalom crossing. Despite rigorous security screenings, these supplies await collection by UN agencies for subsequent distribution.
The Israel Defense Forces, under the guidance of the Coordinator of Government Activities in the Territories (COGAT), continues its dedicated efforts to facilitate the vital flow of humanitarian aid into Gaza. Over the past two days, a total of 553 aid trucks, following stringent security protocols, traversed the Kerem Shalom and Nitzana crossings, ensuring the delivery of essential supplies to Gaza's residents. In a noteworthy development, 56 food packages were airdropped at strategic points throughout the Strip, bolstering the ongoing relief operations.
In a bid to enhance aid distribution to northern Gaza, 126 trucks were successfully routed to the region, complemented by a meticulously coordinated entry of additional trucks through the 'Northern Crossing,' a testament to the collaborative efforts between COGAT and security forces. Concurrently, efforts to restore the Bani Suheila water pipeline are underway, with imminent completion expected to significantly augment water accessibility for up to 400,000 individuals in the Khan Yunis area.
In partnership with the international community, the Coordination and Liaison Administration for Gaza is poised to inaugurate two new World Food Program (WFP) bakeries in Gaza City's northern precincts. These new bakeries in the northern region will complement the inaugural WFP bakery that began operations yesterday, boasting a daily output capacity of around 650,000 pita breads. Adding to the existing network, these northern bakeries will join the ranks of 23 others already established in the southern and central areas of the Gaza Strip. Together, these bakeries serve the daily bread needs of over 2.2 million residents. Coordinated shipments of fuel and flour underscore COGAT's commitment to sustaining these vital facilities, which supplement the existing network of bakeries already serving millions of residents across the Strip.
Notwithstanding these commendable endeavors led by MG Ghasan Alyan, challenges persist, exemplified by the delay in the transfer of aid from over 450 trucks awaiting clearance at the Palestinian side of the Kerem Shalom crossing. Despite rigorous security screenings, these supplies await collection by UN agencies for subsequent distribution, highlighting the ongoing complexities inherent in humanitarian operations in the region.
