Three Weeks Into Ceasefire, Gaza Shelter Aid Still Blocked as Winter Approaches
Millions of shelter and non-food supplies remain stuck in Jordan, Egypt, and Israel, pending approvals. This delay leaves about 260,000 Palestinian families—nearly 1.5 million people—in deteriorating conditions.
Since the ceasefire began on October 10, Israeli authorities have denied 23 requests from nine aid agencies to bring in urgently needed items such as tents, sealing and framing kits, bedding, kitchen sets, and blankets. These shipments total nearly 4,000 pallets.
“We have a very short chance to protect families from the winter rains and cold,” said Angelita Caredda, Middle East and North Africa Regional Director for the Norwegian Refugee Council (NRC), which leads the Shelter Cluster.
Caredda emphasized that more than three weeks after the ceasefire, Gaza has received only a small portion of the required shelter materials. She urged the international community to ensure rapid and unobstructed access.
In 21 of the 23 refusals, Israeli authorities argued that the organisations making the requests were “not authorised to deliver humanitarian aid to Gaza,” including some with valid registrations in Israel. Even authorised agencies face lengthy and unclear customs processes.
Challenges to Aid Delivery
- Denied requests stem largely from Israeli claims about agencies’ authorization status.
- Many shipments are held up due to slow, opaque customs procedures.
- The limited aid access severely restricts winterization efforts, risking vulnerable families as cold weather nears.
Urgency of Winter Assistance
Humanitarian groups warn that the opportunity to expand winter aid is closing quickly, raising concerns for millions at risk of exposure to harsh conditions without adequate shelter support.
Key Quote
“More than three weeks into the ceasefire, Gaza should be receiving a surge of shelter materials, but only a fraction of what is needed has entered. The international community must act now to secure swift and unimpeded access.” – Angelita Caredda, NRC
Author's summary: Persistent blockage of critical shelter aid to Gaza amid ceasefire delays urgent winter assistance, leaving millions exposed to worsening conditions.
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