Amid escalating needs due to the Israel-Hamas conflict, the UN significantly increases its funding request for Gaza and the West Bank
The United Nations has issued a dramatic increase in its humanitarian funding request for Gaza, now seeking $2.5 billion to support relief efforts through the end of the year. This request marks a tenfold increase compared to the initial figures estimated just after the outbreak of hostilities in October when Hamas launched attacks on Israel.
The total appeal for both Gaza and the West Bank amounts to $2.8 billion. This funding is intended to address a wide range of urgent needs, with approximately $800 million allocated for shelter and health services and a significant portion designated for food security. Despite this substantial appeal, the UN acknowledges that it still falls short of the $4.1 billion needed to adequately support the 3.3 million Palestinians affected by the ongoing conflict.
The United Nations Office for Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) expressed that the current appeal is rooted in a realistic assessment of what can be feasibly implemented under the challenging conditions on the ground. The operational constraints and the magnitude of the response required are unprecedented, highlighting the severity of the crisis in Gaza and the surrounding areas.
Moreover, the UN has outlined several critical steps necessary for the effective delivery of aid, including the opening of additional land routes into Gaza, enhancements in the mobility within the territory, and the issuance of more visas and permits for UN personnel.
Compounding the situation, the UN Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA), primarily responsible for distributing aid in Gaza, faces a severe funding shortage. This crisis has been exacerbated by allegations from Israeli officials accusing some UNRWA staff of involvement in the October 7 attacks by Hamas, which is designated a terrorist organization by the United States and the European Union. These allegations have led to a temporary halt in funding from major donors, including the U.S., pending an investigation.
Deputy U.S. Ambassador Robert Wood emphasized the critical role of UNRWA in Gaza, expressing anticipation for the investigation results and affirming continued U.S. support for necessary reforms to ensure the agency’s operational sustainability.
As the humanitarian situation deteriorates, the UN warns that without significant financial intervention, UNRWA may only be able to continue its operations until the following month. The ongoing conflict has resulted in over 32,000 fatalities and displaced thousands, according to figures from the Hamas-run health ministry.
Philippe Lazzarini, the Commissioner-General of UNRWA, highlighted the dire circumstances during a Security Council meeting, noting that the campaign against UNRWA poses significant threats not only to regional stability but also to international peace and security. Lazzarini stressed that UNRWA’s existence is a stopgap in the absence of a political resolution and the establishment of a state capable of delivering essential public services.
