The ongoing Israeli military offensive on Gaza has claimed many civilian lives, with at least 30 people, including children, killed in recent airstrikes in the northern part of the enclave, according to the Civil Defense Agency.
The United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) has issued a statement emphasizing that no area in Gaza is safe for civilians amid the conflict. Scott Anderson, the Deputy Humanitarian Coordinator and Director of UNRWA in Gaza, echoed widespread concerns, stating, “We are nowhere safe in Gaza.” He stressed that both hospitals and schools—sites meant to provide safety—are not being respected as sanctuaries. UNRWA, along with Palestinian Authority schools, has urged all parties involved in the conflict to protect these vital spaces for the wellbeing of civilians.
The UNRWA’s operations have been further complicated by a ban from the Israeli parliament, which accuses some of its members of colluding with Hamas. The organization has stated that it takes these allegations seriously, noting the dismissal of several employees earlier this year who were linked to the October 7th Hamas attacks.
The ongoing ban on UNRWA’s work in Gaza and the West Bank has raised concerns about the future of aid for Palestinians in the region.