UN reaffirms commitment to Gaza, pledges continued humanitarian assistance

CAIRO - 25 March 2025: The United Nations has reiterated its commitment to remaining in Gaza and continuing its humanitarian operations despite mounting challenges. UN spokesperson Stéphane Dujarric confirmed that the organization would not withdraw from the region and remains dedicated to delivering life-saving aid to civilians.

Dujarric highlighted that the Israeli government has blocked humanitarian aid deliveries to Gaza for over three weeks—marking the longest suspension of assistance since October 7, 2023. Israeli officials have also signaled their intention to continue military operations in the enclave.

The spokesperson condemned the devastating Israeli airstrikes on Gaza, which have resulted in hundreds of civilian casualties, including UN personnel. He also stressed that no aid has been allowed into Gaza since early March, exacerbating the already dire humanitarian situation. In response, UN Secretary-General António Guterres made the difficult decision to reduce the organization’s presence in Gaza due to escalating security concerns and the worsening humanitarian crisis.

Dujarric announced that the UN would temporarily reduce the number of international staff in Gaza by one-third this week. However, he emphasized that the move is a temporary measure driven by security and operational concerns, with hopes that personnel will return as soon as possible.

Despite these reductions, the majority of UN humanitarian efforts in Gaza remain active, as Palestinian UN staff continue distributing aid under extremely challenging conditions. The organization reaffirmed its commitment to addressing the humanitarian crisis and ensuring that essential assistance reaches those in desperate need.