“Today marks one of the rare times we are able to highlight positive developments, albeit amid catastrophic humanitarian needs
Tom Fletcher (on screen), Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs and Emergency Relief Coordinator, briefs members of the UN Security Council on the situation in the Middle East, including the Palestinian question.
The UN and partners have increased the flow of supplies, scaled up storage capacity, and repaired critical infrastructure. “We are getting supplies to designated emergency shelters and distribution centres across the Gaza Strip,” Mr. Fletcher said.
Efforts include delivering food parcels, reopening bakeries, and distributing fuel to ensure essential services can run on back-up generators.
Mr. Fletcher emphasized the collective effort required to sustain these operations. “All of Gaza – more than 2 million people – depends on our humanitarian support,” he stressed, calling for regular replenishment of aid stocks by Member States and the private sector.
West Bank fighting, settler attacks
Turning to the West Bank, Mr. Fletcher highlighted the record-high levels of casualties, displacement, and access restrictions since October 2023.
“Israeli settlers have attacked Palestinian villages, setting homes and properties on fire,” he reported, noting the increased movement restrictions impeding access to basic services.
The situation in Jenin is particularly concerning, with recent Israeli military operations causing further destruction and displacement. “This follows the weeks-long operation by the Palestinian Authority, which triggered the displacement of some 2,000 families,” Mr. Fletcher added.
Three asks
In his closing remarks, Mr. Fletcher made three urgent appeals to the Security Council: to ensure the ceasefire is maintained, to uphold international law across the Occupied Palestinian Territory, and to secure funding for humanitarian operations.
“Our 2025 Flash Appeal requires $4.07 billion to meet the needs of three million people in Gaza and the West Bank,” he stated, emphasizing that nearly 90 per cent of the funds are needed for Gaza.
“The children of Gaza are not collateral damage. They are as deserving as children everywhere of security, education, hope,” Mr. Fletcher concluded. “We must be there for them now.”