Regional Response to the Crisis in Occupied Palestinian Territory (Lebanon and Egypt): Situation Report #19 – IOM

22 February 2024

HIGHLIGHTS

• On 22 February, IASC principals released a statement detailing 10 requirements to avoid “an even worse catastrophe” – among these are calls for an immediate ceasefire, the protection of civilians and infrastructure, reliable entry points into Gaza, security assurances and unimpeded humanitarian access and a halt to campaigns that seek to discredit the United Nations and non-governmental organizations.

• On 20 February, the United States vetoed a UNSC resolution put forward by Algeria on behalf of Arab States demanding “an immediate humanitarian ceasefire that must be respected by all parties”. This marks the third US veto of a UNSC resolution demanding a ceasefire in Gaza.

• Over the past two weeks, humanitarian aid convoys in Gaza have faced many obstacles, including safety and movement restrictions, halting some of the on-going humanitarian operations in Gaza.

• On 20 February, WFP released a statement announcing the pausing of deliveries of life-saving food aid to northern Gaza until conditions are in place that allow for safe distributions

• The Kerem Shalom border crossing has been closed for multiple days, and the Rafah crossing for over a week, with only intermittent openings allowing a small number of trucks into Gaza. Coupled with the frequent rejection of items, and the long wait times for trucks to cross into Gaza, operations have been significantly delayed.

• In addition to the situation in Gaza, the deteriorating security situation along the border areas between Israel and Lebanon calls for urgent funding to meet the increasing needs.