Trucks carrying relief supplies were entering war-torn Gaza from Egypt through the Rafah crossing on Friday after a four-day pause in Israeli bombardments, UN agencies confirmed. Calls for access to all parts of the battered Palestinian enclave were reiterated as the death toll approached 15,000, with many displaced people sleeping in the streets.
UN Humanitarian Affairs Coordination Office (OCHA) spokesperson Jens Laerke expressed hope that the agreement between Israel and Hamas, which facilitated the humanitarian pause, would enable access to those in need and lead to a long-term humanitarian ceasefire.
The agreement, facilitated by Egypt, Qatar, and the United States, also includes the release of Israeli hostages taken by Hamas fighters on October 7 and Palestinian detainees from Israeli prisons.
The volatile situation during the truce’s early hours emphasizes the urgency of reaching those in need. The World Health Organization (WHO) also expressed concern for patients and health workers trapped in north Gaza’s hospitals and highlighted ongoing evacuation planning efforts.
At the start of the truce, an increase in bombardments and clashes was reported, leading to intensified Israeli strikes and ground battles in the north. The death toll in the enclave surpassed 14,800, with thousands believed to be trapped under the rubble of their homes.
Efforts to address the humanitarian crisis include the need for more fuel to operate machinery for rescue operations. Over 1.7 million people in Gaza are internally displaced, with many staying in overcrowded UNRWA shelters.
UNRWA chief Philippe Lazzarini emphasized the importance of ensuring people in Gaza can sleep without fear, stating that it is the bare minimum anyone should be able to have.