UN calls for massive boost in Gaza shelter aid before winter

The United Nations has intensified its calls for a major escalation in the delivery of shelter supplies to the Gaza Strip, warning that time is running out before the onset of winter. UN spokesperson Farhan Haq highlighted that families, continuously on the move into newly accessible areas following the ceasefire, are crowding into already overwhelmed displacement sites.

Aid Distribution and Overcrowding

Citing data from the UN's Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA), Haq detailed that thousands of displacements were recorded towards Gaza City and eastern areas. As aid groups work to expand their presence and operations under a 60-day plan, the distribution of essential items like tents and blankets has begun in areas such as Khan Younis. However, humanitarian partners stress that these efforts are a fraction of what is critically required to protect the vulnerable population from the impending harsh weather.

Logistical Challenges at Crossings

The spokesperson outlined the logistical efforts, noting that UN teams have collected thousands of metric tons of essential supplies from specific crossings since the ceasefire began. Between October 17 and 19, hundreds of trucks carrying aid pallets were offloaded at the Kerem Shalom/Karem Abu Salem and Kissufim crossings, with food constituting the majority of the cargo. Despite this activity, Haq pointed out that only a limited number of agencies have the necessary permissions from Israeli authorities to bring in the required volumes of shelter materials.

Situation in the West Bank

Separately, the UN also reported on the deteriorating situation in the occupied West Bank. According to the UN Human Rights Office, the first half of 2025 has seen a sharp rise in attacks by armed settlers, with hundreds of incidents causing Palestinian casualties and property damage. This represents a significant increase compared to the previous year, further complicating the regional humanitarian landscape. Official Palestinian figures report a high number of casualties and detentions in the West Bank since the previous October.