Gaza Herald- Jens Laerke, spokesperson for the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA), stated on Friday that Israel continues to obstruct the entry of essential humanitarian supplies into Gaza, despite the commencement of the second phase of the ceasefire.
His remarks followed the announcement by U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff on the start of the next phase of the Gaza agreement and the implications of the ongoing ceasefire on humanitarian operations.
Laerke described the second phase of the Gaza agreement as an important milestone, emphasising that efforts aimed at alleviating civilian suffering and supporting reconstruction are welcomed by the UN.
He noted significant progress achieved during the initial three months of the ceasefire, including the reopening of 36 health facilities and the establishment of 26 new ones by humanitarian partners.
However, Laerke warned that restrictions on aid deliveries persist, underscoring the urgent need for unimpeded access to essential humanitarian materials.
He also highlighted the pressing requirement for debris-clearing equipment, water pumps to prevent flooding, and sandbags, especially as thousands of Palestinians remain affected by the recent winter storms.
Despite the ceasefire officially taking effect on 10 October 2025, conditions on the ground remain dire, with Israel failing to meet its obligations under the agreement.
On Wednesday, U.S. envoy Witkoff confirmed the launch of the ceasefire’s second phase.
According to UN estimates, since 7 October 2023, the conflict in Gaza has resulted in over 71,000 Palestinian deaths, 171,000 injuries, and the destruction of approximately 90% of civilian infrastructure. The cost of reconstruction is projected to exceed $70 billion.
