UN aid chief calls for dignity, not just survival, in Gaza

The United Nations has called for greater humanitarian access to Gaza, warning that simply keeping people alive is not enough as millions continue to endure severe hardship despite a recent reduction in fighting.

Addressing the UN Security Council on Thursday, UN humanitarian chief Tom Fletcher said conditions in Gaza remain far below what civilians need to live with dignity, even though aid deliveries have increased since the ceasefire between Israel and Hamas took effect in October.

Fletcher acknowledged that humanitarian access has improved, with around 100 aid shipments entering Gaza each day. However, he stressed that the current level of assistance falls far short of addressing the territory‍‍`s vast humanitarian needs.

He said the international community should not view basic survival as a sufficient outcome, arguing that Palestinians continue to face hunger, displacement, inadequate shelter and limited access to education and essential services.
Calling for broader humanitarian access, 

Fletcher urged the opening of all border crossings into Gaza and the removal of restrictions affecting the delivery of critical supplies, including fuel and medical equipment.

He emphasized that lasting recovery requires more than a ceasefire, saying efforts must focus on restoring normal living conditions and human dignity for the population.

The Security Council also heard from Bushra Khalidi of international aid organization Oxfam, who urged world leaders to respond with urgency and take meaningful action to address the humanitarian crisis.

Humanitarian organizations have repeatedly warned that Gaza‍‍`s civilian population continues to face enormous challenges despite recent improvements in aid access. Relief agencies say expanded humanitarian corridors and uninterrupted deliveries are essential to meeting growing needs across the territory.

The latest appeal comes as international pressure mounts for stronger humanitarian measures and a long-term solution to the conflict that has devastated Gaza and displaced large numbers of residents.