Aid Risk in Gaza as Cooperation with UN Refugee Agency Threatened

An official from the UN refugee agency, Unrwa, has warned of an impending collapse of social order in the Gaza Strip if Israel proceeds with its plan to terminate cooperation with the agency. Louise Wateridge, a senior emergency officer who recently returned from Gaza, reported dire conditions for approximately 60,000 displaced Palestinians who are currently living in makeshift tents, many of which are now flooded due to winter rains.

Wateridge highlighted that conditions could worsen significantly without Unrwa's ability to provide aid. With only 12 bathrooms available for the large population in schools, the sanitary situation is alarming. She explained that the fabric of community support is already fraying as people face the grim reality of living under constant threat and deprivation.

The Israeli Knesset has approved legislation to restrict Unrwa's operations amid allegations that some of its staff were involved in the October 7 Hamas attacks, further complicating the humanitarian crisis. Wateridge noted that without effective communication and a "deconfliction process" with Israeli authorities, aid distribution will essentially cease, exacerbating the already fragile humanitarian situation.

The lack of basic necessities has led to an atmosphere of lawlessness in parts of Gaza, with reports of looting and violence becoming increasingly common. Wateridge described horrific living conditions for many, highlighting a particular instance where a student, who had aspirations of attending university, is now living in a school toilet and struggling to study with limited resources.

As tensions remain high and the international community is perceived as having abandoned the Gaza population, Wateridge emphasized the urgent need for assistance and the operational functionality of Unrwa. She warned that if aid efforts are further impeded, it could lead to greater civil disorder and suffering among the already vulnerable population.