Abu dhabi: The Foreign Ministers of the United Arab Emirates, Jordan, Indonesia, Pakistan, Trkiye, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Egypt have issued a joint statement expressing their profound concern over the worsening humanitarian conditions in the Gaza Strip. The region, already grappling with severe weather conditions such as heavy rainfall and storms, is facing compounded challenges due to insufficient humanitarian access and a critical shortage of essential supplies.
According to Emirates News Agency, the ministers emphasized the fragility of the humanitarian situation, highlighting the plight of nearly 1.9 million people, including displaced families living in inadequate shelters. The severe weather has led to flooded camps, damaged tents, and collapsed buildings, further exposing civilians to cold temperatures, malnutrition, and the risk of disease outbreaks, particularly affecting children, women, the elderly, and those with medical vulnerabilities.
The ministers praised the efforts of United Nations organizations, especially UNRWA, and international NGOs in delivering aid under challenging circumstances. They urged Israel to ensure that these entities can operate freely in Gaza and the West Bank, as their role is crucial in the humanitarian response. Any hindrance to their operations is deemed unacceptable.
Additionally, the ministers reiterated their support for UNSCR 2803 and President Trump's Comprehensive Plan, aiming for a sustainable ceasefire and an end to the conflict in Gaza. They emphasized the need for early recovery efforts, including the provision of durable shelters to protect the population from harsh winter conditions.
The international community was called upon to fulfill its responsibilities and pressure Israel to lift restrictions on essential supplies, such as tents, medical aid, clean water, and fuel. The ministers demanded immediate and unhindered humanitarian aid access to Gaza and the opening of the Rafah Crossing, as outlined in the Comprehensive Plan.