The UK government has condemned the protracted delays in allowing assistance into Gaza, after the arrival of a shipment of over 1,100 tents that took more than a year to reach the region.
The foreign secretary has expressed worries that additional UK-funded assistance has failed to reach locals, despite the truce between Hamas and Israel.
Yvette Cooper said that the conditions in Gaza are “dire,” as the United Nations cautioned that 1.5 million people need immediate shelter due to deteriorating rainfall and declining temperatures in anticipation of winter.
The media has solicited a reaction from the Israeli government.
The tents, each accommodating a family of five, arrived in Gaza on Monday, with further shipments anticipated this week.
Government sources said that the tents would accommodate up to 12,000 individuals over the winter months.
Cooper said that the postponement of assistance delivery to the strip must not persist and that all entry points into the region should be unblocked to facilitate unimpeded humanitarian access.
She stated: “The situation in Gaza is dire, with deteriorating weather conditions exacerbating the critical issues stemming from damaged infrastructure and over two years of conflict.”
Parents have tried to protect their children under dilapidated roofs and exposed sky.
“These tents will offer essential shelter to thousands, safeguarding them from frigid winds and incessant rain that transforms debris into mud.”
Approximately 1.9 million individuals in Gaza, approximately 90% of the population, have been displaced since the start of the Israel-Hamas war in October 2023, as reported by the UN.
Cooper said that the receipt of the help was appreciated but just a preliminary measure towards the extensive rehabilitation that is “urgently required,” expressing her frustration at seeing “yet another shipment of aid impeded at the border” earlier this year.
“This must not persist,” she said.
“The arrival of these tents illustrates the magnitude of potential impact when our aid is delivered. We will persist in our efforts to advocate for unrestricted humanitarian access, the opening of all crossings, the execution of the peace plan, and a pathway to peace.”
Jonathan Veitch, UNICEF Special Representative to the State of Palestine, said that the delivery of the tents “signifies months of sustained efforts by the international community to advocate for enhanced aid access.”
The situation in Gaza is dire, as frigid temperatures and torrential rains persistently impact people enduring very harsh circumstances.
“Despite the ceasefire, daily life continues to be exceedingly difficult for children in the Gaza Strip.”
Tents backed by UK assistance have arrived in Gaza and will provide essential shelter, helping families endure the severe winter conditions. Significantly more is required.
