UN: New checkpoint procedures hinder aid entry into Gaza

The United Nations (UN) has stated that new, slower inspection procedures implemented by Israel at the only remaining operational cargo crossing for goods into Gaza have triggered severe congestion and significant delays for aid convoys, according to several UN humanitarian agencies on Tuesday (2/6).

The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) reported that on Monday (1/6), Israeli forces began diverting humanitarian convoys through a new route with new checkpoints to reach the Kerem Shalom/Karem Abu Salem cargo crossing from within Gaza.

“Humanitarian convoys are facing significant operational constraints at the new checkpoints, including delays, congestion, technical disruptions, and slow inspection processes,” said OCHA. “As a result, only a portion of the supplies planned for collection from Kerem Shalom could be transported,” the agency added.

Kerem Shalom/Karem Abu Salem is the only cargo crossing still operational since the Zikim crossing in the northern region was closed for two consecutive weeks.

According to OCHA, humanitarian teams are currently coordinating with authorities to ensure smoother access to Israeli crossings along the Gaza perimeter and the reopening of additional routes. OCHA partners reported that dwindling stocks, ongoing restrictions on the entry of essential materials, and limited access to affected areas are making it difficult to meet the daily needs of refugees.

In the West Bank, Israeli forces on Sunday (31/5) extended military orders closing three refugee camps in Jenin and Tulkarm. The UN agency for Palestinian refugees stated that more than 33,000 Palestinians from these camps have been displaced and have not been permitted to return since January 2025.

OCHA has called for the lifting of movement restrictions and other policies that cause or prolong displacement, as well as those that hinder access to basic services and livelihoods.