UNICEF representative in Egypt, Jeremy Hopkins, stresses the critical need for a minimum of 100 trucks carrying humanitarian aid to cross into the Gaza Strip daily, stating that the current 17 trucks are insufficient to meet the dire needs of the population.
The existing aid is falling short of providing for hundreds of thousands of people living in Gaza, especially children who are facing horrific and terrifying ordeals.
During a phone call with the “CBC” satellite channel on Monday, Hopkins mentioned that UNICEF is working on establishing a humanitarian aid supply line into Gaza, which will include essential medicine and food.
The absence of fuel makes it exceedingly challenging to operate and supply medical aids to the Gaza Strip, making the situation even more critical.
Hopkins emphasized that these components are vital for humanitarian aid delivery, and stressed on the importance of protecting humanitarian aid workers. There’s no justification for targeting children anywhere, he added, referring to the unprecedented child fatality rate seen since October 7 in this conflict.
Expressing deep sorrow for the situation in Gaza, Hopkins stated that ceasing hostile actions is the quickest way to alleviate the crisis. He extended his gratitude to the Red Cross for their efforts and thanked the Egyptian government for their supportive and constructive dialogue concerning humanitarian aid efforts.
UNICEF is optimistic that over time, an efficient supply line for life-saving aids across the border can be established. Currently, trucks loaded with such aids are crossing the border within hours to support more than 250,000 individuals.
