Ammon News - The United Nations stated that Israeli restrictions on the entry of aid into the Gaza Strip are hindering relief efforts and the response to the aftermath of floods that have swept through parts of the territory. The floods have resulted in casualties, missing persons, and the displacement of residents, in addition to causing extensive material damage.

This was announced during a press conference held by Farhan Haq, Deputy Spokesperson for the UN Secretary-General, in New York on Monday evening. Haq explained that Israeli restrictions are forcing humanitarian workers to operate with "wholly inadequate" equipment and shelter supplies.

Haq conveyed a call from Ramez Al-Akberov, Deputy UN Special Coordinator for the Middle East Peace Process, urging the removal of all unnecessary restrictions and delays that impede the entry of sufficient quantities of water drainage pumps, heavy machinery, tents, tarpaulins, blankets, winter clothing, and other essential supplies.

He noted that the first heavy rains of the year in the Gaza Strip triggered flooding, exacerbated by weak infrastructure. He further reported that an infant drowned in the floodwaters, and at least three children and one woman were killed when a sand dune collapsed onto tents housing displaced people. In another context, Haq highlighted the ongoing Israeli attacks on residential areas in the Gaza Strip, which continue to result in further casualties and hinder the operations of United Nations humanitarian teams.

He explained that, last Saturday, UN staff were forced to take cover following gunfire near an area for displaced persons west of the "yellow line" in Gaza City; no injuries were reported among them.

Haq reiterated his call for the protection of civilians in accordance with international humanitarian law, emphasizing that more humanitarian aid could be brought into the Gaza Strip if the Israeli authorities were to permit it.