A top United Nations official has raised concerns over the lack of understanding and mistrust between the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) and humanitarian organizations operating in Gaza. The UN Humanitarian Coordinator in the Occupied Palestinian Territories, Jamie McGoldrick, emphasized the need to address these issues to ensure the safety of humanitarian workers.
McGoldrick pointed out that the recent deadly Israeli strike on nonprofit World Central Kitchen, which resulted in the deaths of seven workers, has heightened fears among humanitarian workers in Gaza. He also mentioned an attack on a UNICEF convoy as another alarming incident.
According to McGoldrick, the IDF's unfamiliarity with humanitarian operations in such environments has led to a lack of understanding of how these organizations function and their objectives. He stressed the importance of bridging the gap in communication and trust between the IDF and NGOs.
Following a meeting with the head of the IDF Southern Command, Maj. Gen. Yaron Finkelman, McGoldrick discussed various issues, including the need for clearer markings on NGO-affiliated vehicles and concerns over weapons discipline. The meeting aimed to address the challenges faced by humanitarian workers and improve coordination between the IDF and NGOs.
McGoldrick highlighted the risks posed by inadequate communication infrastructure within Gaza, underscoring the importance of enhancing communication channels to ensure the safety and effectiveness of humanitarian operations in the region.
