When Hussam Okal and his family sought refuge in a training center in the southern Gaza city of Khan Younis, they found it crowded with over 22,000 people seeking shelter from Israeli bombs. Okal, who works for the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees, is one of many agency staff members who are also displaced and working to help others affected by the conflict. The UNRWA has been providing vital services to Palestinians since 1950, but the current war has presented unprecedented challenges for the agency.
At least 146 UNRWA employees have been killed in Israeli bombings, making it the deadliest war for the agency. Many staff members have lost their homes and loved ones and are now seeking shelter in the same places they once set up for others. The agency’s ability to fulfill its mission is at risk, and its leadership is struggling to cope with the devastating impact of the war on its operations.
The war has resulted in the displacement of more than 1.9 million people, with over 1.4 million taking shelter in UNRWA-run facilities. The situation is dire, as resources are drying up, making it increasingly difficult to provide basic assistance such as food and shelter. The UNRWA is facing challenges in delivering aid, with shortages of essential supplies like wheat flour. The agency’s ability to meet the needs of the population is severely limited, and the situation may never recover from the current deficit.
The war has also taken a toll on other aid providers, such as the Qatar Committee for the Reconstruction of Gaza. Their infrastructure projects have suffered extensive damage, hindering efforts to support the people of Gaza. Despite their challenges, these organizations remain committed to providing crucial assistance and support to the people of Gaza.
The blockade of the Gaza Strip, coupled with the war, has exacerbated an already dire humanitarian situation. Schools, hospitals, and civic infrastructure have been damaged, and the population is facing severe food shortages. The UNRWA’s capacity to respond to the crisis is on the verge of collapse, and the situation could reach a point of no return without immediate action.
While the future of Gaza remains uncertain, aid providers are focused on addressing the immediate needs of the population. However, with ongoing conflict and restricted access to essential supplies, the situation in Gaza continues to deteriorate. The international community’s support is crucial to prevent further suffering and ensure that aid reaches those who need it most.