In brief
United Nations officials warned that airstrikes in Gaza’s Khan Younis have damaged infrastructure and displaced roughly 100 families, with Israeli forces blocking movement in Hebron and keeping 3,000 Palestinians displaced. The UN called for unhindered humanitarian access and emphasized protection of civilians.
UN humanitarian officials said on Thursday that airstrikes in Gaza’s Khan Younis are continuing to damage infrastructure and displace civilians, while Israeli operations have left about 3,000 Palestinians displaced in Hebron, West Bank.
On Wednesday, a UN warehouse in Khan Younis was struck by flying debris from an airstrike, but UN staff members escaped injury. Earlier this week, explosions near UNOPS facilities left staff injured and a convoy of humanitarian workers detained at checkpoints.
UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) noted that over the past week, about 100 Palestinian families lost tents and other belongings in airstrikes, fires, and other incidents. Humanitarian partners have mobilized support for these families through a rapid response process.
The World Health Organization (WHO) reported that acute respiratory infections remain Gaza’s leading health concern, with viral meningitis cases rising to over 200 and probable bacterial meningitis over 70 since Oct. 7, 2023. WHO aides said overcrowding, degraded water and sanitation infrastructure, and shortages of essential treatments heighten transmission risks.
In the West Bank, OCHA said the Hebron Municipality authorities recorded that about 3,000 Palestinians remain displaced from two neighborhoods in the city due to Israeli forces operating in the area and imposing tight movement restrictions. Most displaced families are staying with relatives who have received support from local authorities and humanitarian partners.
OCHA added:
Partners report that over the past week, about 100 Palestinian families lost their tents and other belongings in airstrikes, fires and other incidents. Humanitarian partners have mobilized support for these families through a rapid response process.
It also urged that all parties uphold their obligations to protect civilians, including humanitarian personnel, and called for lifting restrictions on humanitarian supplies and additional funding for aid efforts.
OCHA concluded: “Palestinians across the West Bank must be protected. Those displaced must be allowed to return voluntarily and safely.”
