London: The UK Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper has labeled the humanitarian situation in the Gaza Strip as "desperate," highlighting the urgent need for food, shelter, clean water, and medical assistance for families in the region. Cooper, in a statement issued by the UK Foreign Office, emphasized the critical role of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) in addressing these needs.

According to Qatar News Agency, Cooper announced a £23 million UK funding package for UNRWA. This financial support, along with contributions from international partners, aims to uphold the agency's efforts to assist Palestine refugees and civilians in Gaza. Cooper criticized the Israeli government's restrictions on aid agencies like UNRWA, urging the opening of all crossings to facilitate the entry of necessary supplies.

Cooper reinforced the UK's stance for the urgent delivery of humanitarian assistance to Gaza, aligning with UN Security Council Resolution 2803. This resolution highlights the necessity for the full resumption of aid in coordination with the United Nations and its partners. She called upon Israel to adhere to its international legal obligations, ensuring the safe operation of aid workers and enabling UN agencies to reach those in distress.

The announcement of funding comes amid increasing difficulties faced by UNRWA in executing its mission in Gaza, where 392 of its staff members have lost their lives since October 2023.