5 May 2026
OCHA warns that civilians in the?Occupied Palestinian Territory continue to come under fire, as strikes and exchanges of gunfire hit residential areas.
Partners leading on safety report that last week saw one of the highest numbers of security incidents since the ceasefire was declared in October last year. Humanitarian facilities came under fire in two separate incidents. An airstrike also struck near a UN warehouse, and relief vehicles were damaged by stone throwing.
In line with international humanitarian law, all parties must fulfil their obligation to facilitate ¨C not obstruct ¨C humanitarian operations. Civilians and civilian infrastructure must always be protected.
OCHA reports that restrictions on the entry of engine oil, spare parts, rubble?removal machinery and other essential items into Gaza are severely impacting the delivery of critical services.
Vehicles and generators are breaking down beyond repair, disrupting food distribution, water trucking, ambulance services and the delivery of educational supplies and medical items. Generator failures are also affecting hospitals, including intensive care units.
As armoured vehicles become increasingly worn out, aid workers are facing growing risks as they work to reach people in need.
Partners leading on health say the scale of unmet need in Gaza remains??as thousands of patients depend on life-sustaining services beyond what the system can supply.
Humanitarian partners are deploying emergency medical workers to strengthen the health system. As of last month, three dozen emergency medical teams comprising over 380 health professionals ¨C national and international ¨C supported the emergency response in Gaza. But that¡¯s far from enough.
Health partners call for the sustained entry of medical supplies, particularly diagnostics and specialised equipment. They stress that a top priority remains supporting the restoration of capacity and services so that the local health system can recover.
Document Sources: Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA)
Subject: Gaza Strip, Health, Human rights and international humanitarian law
Publication Date: 05/05/2026
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