UK condemns delays in Gaza aid delivery as tents arrive a year later

The UK government has expressed concern over significant delays in the delivery of humanitarian aid to Gaza, following the arrival of over 1,100 tents more than a year after being sent. The Foreign Secretary highlighted that other UK-funded assistance has also struggled to reach local residents despite the ceasefire between Hamas and Israel.

Yvette Cooper described the situation in Gaza as "critical," with the United Nations warning that 1.5 million people urgently need shelter amid heavy rains and dropping temperatures as winter approaches. The BBC has requested a statement from the Israeli authorities regarding the delays.

The newly arrived tents, each designed to accommodate a family of five, reached Gaza on Monday, with additional shipments expected later in the week. Officials noted that these shelters could serve up to 12,000 people during the winter months.

Cooper stressed that the prolonged delays in aid deliveries are unacceptable and called for all border crossings to be opened to ensure unrestricted humanitarian access. She stated: "The worsening weather is intensifying the already dire conditions caused by damaged infrastructure and over two years of conflict. Families have had to protect their children under broken roofs and open skies. These tents will provide essential protection against the cold and persistent rain."

According to the UN, around 1.9 million people in Gazanearly 90% of the populationhave been displaced since the outbreak of the Israel-Hamas conflict in October 2023. Cooper welcomed the arrival of the aid as a necessary step toward the substantial reconstruction efforts required but expressed frustration at earlier consignments being delayed at the border. "This situation cannot continue," she said. "The delivery of these tents demonstrates the potential impact of timely aid. We will persist in advocating for unhindered humanitarian access, the opening of all crossings, and the implementation of the peace plan."

Jonathan Veitch, UNICEF Special Representative to the State of Palestine, emphasized that the tents represent months of international efforts to improve aid access. "Gaza is facing devastating conditions as cold and heavy rain continue to affect families," he said. "Even under the ceasefire, life remains extremely challenging for children. UK-supported tents are now providing urgently needed shelter, but much more assistance is still required."

Author: Sophia Brooks