Humanitarian operations will grind to a halt in the Gaza Strip due to lack of fuel – UNRWA Statement

FROM UNRWA COMMISSIONER-GENERAL PHILIPPE LAZZARINI

AMMAN, 

The humanitarian response in the Gaza Strip, on which over 2 million people depend, is gradually coming to an end because no fuel has been allowed into the Gaza Strip since 7 October.

“UNRWA set off alarm bells over the fuel situation three weeks ago, warning about its fast-depleting supplies, and the impact on lifesaving operations. Since then, we have heavily rationed the use of fuel and accessed pre-existing, limited amounts stored in a depot inside the Gaza Strip, through close coordination with Israeli Authorities.

“The depot is now empty.

“It is very simple. Without fuel, the humanitarian operation in Gaza is coming to an end. Many more people will suffer and will likely die.

“It is unbelievable that humanitarian agencies have to beg for fuel and operate on life support.

“Since the beginning of the war, fuel has been used as a weapon of war and this should stop immediately.

“I appeal to all parties to make fuel available now and stop using humanitarian assistance for political or military gains.”