Yesterday, the Middle East Quartet held a telephone conversation in which Special Coordinator Mladenov gave a detailed briefing on the UN COVID-19 response plan. Much of the discussion focused on Gaza, where the risks remain substantial. Special Coordinator Mladenov focused on UN efforts and the excellent coordination and cooperation that has been established with all Israeli and Palestinian interlocutors.

Israeli and Palestinian authorities continue to coordinate their responses closely and constructively, a major factor in the containment achieved so far. Israel has also facilitated the entry of critical supplies and equipment into Gaza since the beginning of the crisis. Examples of critical supplies include swabs for collection of samples and other laboratory supplies required for COVID-19 testing and Personal Protective Equipment to protect health workers. This is in addition to Israel's cooperation to allow for the movement and access of personnel involved in the COVID-19 response to and from both the West Bank and Gaza.