New Funding Announced to Address Dire Humanitarian Needs
The UK government has pledged an additional £19 million in humanitarian funding to support the people of Gaza amidst a deepening crisis. International Development Minister Anneliese Dodds made the announcement during her three-day regional visit, which includes participation in a high-level humanitarian conference in Cairo. The gathering has brought together global leaders to collaborate on delivering urgent relief to Gaza and addressing its escalating humanitarian challenges.
The new funding comprises £12 million directed to the United Nations’ Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) and the World Food Programme (WFP). To date, the UK has allocated £99 million to the Occupied Palestinian Territories (OPTs) this financial year, supporting vital health, food, and sanitation services for vulnerable communities in Gaza and the West Bank. These funds have enabled healthcare access for half a million individuals and improved water, sanitation, and hygiene services for 284,000 people.
Minister’s Key Engagements
Minister Dodds’ visit highlights the UK’s steadfast commitment to stability and support for the region:
- Participation in the Cairo Conference: Minister Dodds joined global humanitarian leaders to discuss solutions to Gaza’s urgent needs.
- Refugee Camp Visit: She observed UNRWA’s essential work in the West Bank, focusing on providing aid and services for displaced Palestinians.
- Meetings with Palestinian Leadership: Discussions with Palestinian Prime Minister Dr Mohammad Mustafa and Planning Minister Dr Wael Zakout centred on economic stability and essential political reforms.
In addition, £7 million of the newly announced funding will be channelled towards UNRWA’s Flash Humanitarian Appeal for Gaza. This support will ensure the delivery of lifesaving services, including food, shelter, and healthcare, as the winter season worsens living conditions.
Strong Advocacy for Immediate Action
Minister Dodds has called on Israel to ensure unimpeded access for humanitarian aid to Gaza. “The humanitarian crisis in Gaza is devastating. Families face dire shortages of basic necessities such as food and shelter, made worse by winter conditions,” she said. “The UK remains committed to providing essential support while advocating for a ceasefire and the release of hostages. It is critical that all parties work together to find lasting solutions.”
UK contributions this year also include £6 million each to OCHA’s pooled humanitarian fund and WFP. These contributions have supported crucial health services, food distribution, and protection measures. For instance, the WFP’s efforts, bolstered by UK funding, will supply over 4,465 metric tons of fortified wheat flour to feed more than 451,000 people in Gaza for a month.
Addressing Broader Regional Challenges
Minister Dodds’ visit to the West Bank includes a focus on communities in Area C that face displacement and settler violence. The Minister is also meeting with Israeli representatives to discuss steps toward regional stability and the removal of barriers to humanitarian access.
In her concluding remarks, Minister Dodds stated: “This visit underscores the UK’s unwavering support for vulnerable communities in Gaza and the West Bank. Achieving peace and stability requires immediate action, including a ceasefire and solutions that promote long-term regional security.”
