29-8-2024 (GAZA) The United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) has suspended its operations in Gaza “until further notice” following a troubling incident where one of its vehicles was struck by gunfire at an Israeli military checkpoint. The announcement comes amidst rising tensions and increasing difficulties in delivering humanitarian aid to the war-torn region.
On Tuesday, a WFP vehicle approaching the Wadi Gaza Bridge checkpoint was hit by at least 10 bullets, despite having secured necessary clearances for movement. The incident, which fortunately resulted in no injuries, has raised serious concerns about the safety of UN personnel operating in the area.
Cindy McCain, Executive Director of the WFP, expressed her dismay at the situation, stating, “This is totally unacceptable and the latest in a series of unnecessary security incidents that have endangered the lives of WFP’s team in Gaza.” She further emphasised that the current deconfliction system is failing and cannot continue in its present state.
The UN agency shared an image of the damaged vehicle, a white UN-branded truck with several bullet holes visible in its windows. According to the WFP, the shooting occurred when the vehicle was merely “a few metres” from the Israeli checkpoint.
UN Secretary-General’s spokesperson, Stephane Dujarric, provided additional details, noting that the convoy’s movements had been fully coordinated with the Israel Defense Forces (IDF). Dujarric expressed uncertainty about whether the information shared with Israeli authorities had been properly communicated to personnel on the ground.
This incident is not isolated, as the UN has previously reported challenges in delivering aid to Gaza. In May, a UN staff member from India lost their life when their vehicle was struck by what the UN described as tank fire in southern Gaza.
The suspension of WFP operations comes at a critical time, as the UN prepares to vaccinate an estimated 640,000 children in Gaza. The World Health Organization recently reported the first case of type 2 poliovirus in the territory in 25 years, affecting a 10-month-old infant.
The ongoing conflict, which began on 7 October 2023 with a Hamas attack on Israeli communities, has resulted in widespread destruction and displacement in Gaza. Israeli military operations have led to the levelling of large areas, forcing nearly all of the territory’s 2.3 million residents from their homes. Palestinian health authorities report at least 40,000 casualties since the start of the conflict.
