The United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) has suspended the movement of its employees in the Gaza Strip following a serious security incident involving its convoy. This decision comes after the convoy was targeted by Israeli forces, marking a troubling escalation in attacks on humanitarian efforts in the region. WFP Executive Director Cindy McCain condemned the incident, emphasizing the urgent need for the safety of relief workers amidst ongoing hostilities.
The convoy, clearly marked and carrying permits from Israeli authorities, was fired upon while approaching a military checkpoint, highlighting the dangers faced by humanitarian organizations. This incident is part of a larger pattern of attacks on relief agencies, including a recent airstrike that killed seven workers from the World Central Kitchen. The situation has led to significant restrictions on relief operations in Gaza, exacerbated by ongoing conflict and evacuation orders.
In response to the deteriorating humanitarian situation, the UN Security Council is scheduled to meet to discuss the urgent needs in Gaza, including a vaccination campaign against polio. The World Health Organization has reported a recent polio case, the first in 25 years, indicating a critical public health crisis. The UN is preparing to vaccinate approximately 640,000 children, underscoring the dire need for secure and uninterrupted humanitarian access.
