COGAT, the Israeli agency responsible for coordinating the delivery of humanitarian aid into Gaza, has refuted claims that it is obstructing the entry of medical specialists into the region. The World Health Organization (WHO) had previously reported that over 50 medical personnel were prevented from entering Gaza between August and October.
In response to these allegations, COGAT stated that Israel does not impose restrictions on the number of humanitarian teams entering Gaza, provided that necessary security measures are adhered to. The agency highlighted the efforts made to facilitate the entry of medical teams, including the temporary adjustment of the Kerem Shalom Crossing, the primary entry point for aid into southern Gaza.
According to COGAT, since the onset of the conflict last October, 2,727 trucks carrying medical supplies have successfully entered Gaza. The agency emphasized that Israel does not impede the flow of humanitarian aid into Gaza and collaborates with the international community to ensure its continuous delivery.
Addressing the recent accusations of a UN inquiry alleging Israel's deliberate destruction of Gaza's healthcare system during the conflict with Hamas, COGAT reiterated that Israel does not restrict humanitarian aid entry. It explained that adjustments to entry protocols are occasionally necessary due to the dynamic security situation in Gaza, aiming to facilitate aid delivery while preventing misuse by terrorist groups.
COGAT affirmed its commitment to working with international partners to enhance aid delivery mechanisms and alleviate the challenges faced in providing assistance to Gaza. The agency emphasized its ongoing cooperation with the international community to ensure the unimpeded flow of humanitarian aid into the region.
