UN Agency Faces Severe Obstacles Delivering Aid & Mental Health Support in Gaza
The United Nations Population fund (UNFPA) is struggling to provide critical humanitarian assistance in Gaza due to stringent restrictions imposed by Israeli authorities, according to representative Nestor Omohangi. Speaking at a press conference, Omohangi detailed the difficulties faced by international staff attempting to access the region and coordinate aid efforts.
he highlighted an “extremely challenging” visa process for staff needing to travel to Jerusalem,followed by a separate,often unsuccessful,application for permits to enter Gaza itself. Even those granted access face the risk of being unable to return, severely limiting the UNFPA’s capacity to maintain a consistent presence and deliver sustained support.
Beyond access challenges, the UNFPA is witnessing a dramatic deterioration in mental health within Gaza. reports indicate widespread psychological distress, with nearly 100 documented cases of self-harm among survivors of gender-based violence – a figure Omohangi stressed represents only a fraction of the true scale of the crisis, particularly impacting women and young people.
The delivery of essential medical supplies is also being hampered. Omohangi explained that vital equipment for sexual and reproductive health services, including safe childbirth, is routinely blocked from entry. Items like ultrasound machines are arbitrarily classified as ”dual-use” with no clear justification, and even basic tools like scissors are subject to bans, preventing comprehensive maternal care.
These combined obstacles, Omohangi emphasized, are significantly hindering the UNFPA’s ability to fulfill its mandate and provide life-saving assistance to the vulnerable population of Gaza.
