News Center – The deteriorating humanitarian situation in Gaza takes center stage as the scope of risks threatening civilians expands, amidst ongoing shelling, a lack of basic services, and the disruption of relief operations. This places humanitarian organizations before increasing challenges in responding to the deepening crisis.

Yesterday, Wednesday, February 25th, the United Nations warned that recurring security incidents near what is known as the "Yellow Line" in the Gaza Strip are exacerbating risks for civilians and hindering relief operations. This comes at a time when nearly 18,500 children are in urgent need of medical evacuation to receive treatment unavailable inside the Strip.

UN agencies expressed concern over the continued security incidents in the vicinity of the Yellow Line, which have led to the deaths of civilians and impacted the movement of humanitarian work.

Simultaneously, on the ground, Israeli forces have intensified their bombardment of the Gaza Strip amidst accelerating humanitarian deterioration. Displaced persons face increasing risks after several humanitarian organizations, foremost among them the "World Central Kitchen," suspended operations. Amidst this situation, UNRWA stressed that the protection of civilians has become an urgent priority, emphasizing the necessity of ensuring safe and sustainable access for aid.

The ongoing Israeli bombardment has resulted in the deaths of dozens of civilians in various areas of the Strip, in addition to other injuries resulting from aerial and artillery strikes and direct gunfire. This coincided with intense raids east of Gaza City and in Khan Younis.

UNRWA affirmed that continuing to provide essential services such as healthcare, education, and emergency relief requires protecting humanitarian workers and ensuring the security of facilities. Despite the challenges, the agency continues its operations to meet the needs of hundreds of thousands of refugees.

In a related context, the "World Central Kitchen" previously announced the suspension of its operations in Gaza, effective from last Friday until further notice, increasing pressure on displaced persons suffering from a severe shortage of food and services.

Rising Number of Victims

The Ministry of Health in Gaza stated that 9 fatalities—six of whom were recovered—in addition to 4 injuries, arrived at hospitals during the past 24 hours. It pointed out that since the announcement of the ceasefire, the total number of deaths has reached 618, total injuries 1,663, and the total number of those recovered from the rubble is 732.

According to the Ministry, the toll of the Israeli war has risen to 72,082 dead, in addition to 11,761 injured since October 7, 2023. Furthermore, a number of victims remain under the rubble and on the roads, as ambulance and civil defense crews are unable to reach them until this moment