UN Warns of Serious Impact of Funding Crisis on Gaza Civilians
The United Nations has warned that a funding crisis is seriously undermining humanitarian operations in the Palestinian territories, risking the welfare of civilians in Gaza and the West Bank. The funding shortfall is constraining the delivery of food aid and essential services, according to UN spokesperson Farhan Haq during a daily briefing on Monday, citing data from the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs.
The 2026 humanitarian appeal, which seeks more than $4 billion to assist nearly three million people in Gaza Strip and the West Bank, is only around 12 percent funded. Of the total needs, roughly $490 million has been raised to date.
One of the most tangible impacts of the funding gap is on food assistance. Haq explained that the UN and its humanitarian partners in Gaza are currently able to support only the central canteens that provide around one million meals a day, a sharp drop from 1.8 million meals per day in February. In addition to funding constraints, the distribution of aid is hampered by difficulties in importing critical spare parts, backup generators and other supporting equipment. Crises in fuel and engine oil supply are also further undermining field operations.
Moreover, restrictions on major humanitarian partners, movement limitations within Gaza, as well as damaged infrastructure and roads, are limiting aid delivery efficacy. Security conditions on the ground continue to exacerbate civilian suffering. Over the weekend, UN field partners recorded more than 150 families forced to flee from eastern Khan Younis and the eastern Gaza City due to military movements and bombardment. About 2.1 million Gaza residents reportedly remain in displacement, many in extremely precarious conditions.
Haq underscored that civilians must be protected and allowed to move to safety where their basic needs can be met, and should also be able to return voluntarily when conditions permit. The UN reiterated the imperative of civilian protection while urging stronger international support to ensure humanitarian aid can reach those in need in Palestinian territories.