In a statement on Friday, Administrator Samantha Power expressed the United States’ appreciation for the temporary halt in hostilities in Gaza. This respite is viewed as a crucial window of opportunity to intensify the safe delivery of life-saving humanitarian aid to Palestinian civilians in dire need. Additionally, it aims to facilitate the release of hostages held by Hamas after enduring 48 days of captivity.
Gaza faces an unprecedented humanitarian crisis, with around 1.7 million internally displaced individuals and 2.2 million people requiring urgent assistance. The cessation of hostilities, a direct outcome of U.S. diplomatic efforts with regional partners, provides a crucial opening for humanitarian organizations to transport essential supplies such as food, medicine, and water to civilians. Furthermore, it enables the evacuation of those facing critical conditions, including the sick, injured, and other vulnerable populations.
Administrator Power stressed the urgency and importance of establishing sustainable mechanisms to expedite the continuous flow of aid into Gaza. Ongoing coordination with the Governments of Israel and Egypt, the United Nations, and other international entities is in place to facilitate the movement of humanitarian assistance and personnel into the region. The United States, as the leading contributor to the UN’s humanitarian initiatives in Gaza, has already delivered nearly 500,000 pounds of food assistance, urging the global community to fulfill commitments to the UN’s flash humanitarian appeal.
Emphasizing the critical need to protect civilians in line with international humanitarian law, Administrator Power pledged continued efforts by the United States to alleviate the suffering of the affected population. The pause in hostilities also serves to safeguard the humanitarians involved in aid delivery. The conflict has taken a devastating toll on humanitarian workers, with over 100 UNRWA staff losing their lives – the highest number in the history of UN worker casualties in any conflict. Administrator Power expressed profound gratitude to the dedicated humanitarians operating in Gaza, acknowledging their unwavering commitment to saving lives amid challenging circumstances.
