UN warns of ‘immense’ humanitarian needs as Israel allows only one crossing into Gaza

The UN warned Tuesday of worsening humanitarian conditions in the Gaza Strip, as Israel reopened the only approved cargo crossing into the besieged territory amid food shortages and a sharp decline in meals for civilians.

Citing the Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs, UN spokesperson Farhan Haq reported at a news conference that “Israeli authorities reopened the Kerem Shalom Crossing, which remains the only crossing point for approved cargo to enter Gaza.”

“Meanwhile, the UN and our humanitarian partners continue to respond to people’s needs despite bureaucratic hurdles and funding shortfalls, to maintain the response and reach as many vulnerable people as possible,” he added.

Despite ongoing aid efforts, “needs remain immense,” he said, noting that “tens of thousands of families are living in overcrowded shelters, while many others continue to sleep outdoors or in damaged buildings.”