Philippines backs urgent aid, supplies delivery to Palestinian civilians

MANILA, Philippines — The Philippines has reiterated its support for efforts to deliver urgent humanitarian assistance and essential supplies to Palestinian civilians caught in the conflict in Gaza.

At the United Nations General Assembly Debate on “The situation in the Middle East and the question of Palestine” at the UN Headquarters in New York, Chargé d’Affaires Ariel Rodelas Peñaranda commended the UN Relief and Works Agency, Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs and other related UN agencies for their efforts amid the challenging times in Gaza.

Peñaranda stressed that the safety and security of all civilians are essential, and that critical facilities, including humanitarian shelters and hospitals, must continue to address the humanitarian needs of those affected by the hostilities in a sustained and resolute manner.

“The Philippines reiterates its dedication to supporting peace and stability in the Middle East, with a focused commitment to resolving the Israeli-Hamas hostilities. The presence of a significant Filipino community in the Middle East and Israel accentuates the relevance of this issue to the Philippines and highlights the importance of our profound concern about the peace process,” he said.

Military operations in Gaza have resumed following the end of a weeklong pause in hostilities between Hamas militants and Israeli forces that allowed the delivery of desperately needed fuel, food and water.

The pause has also enabled the release of hostages taken during Hamas’ Oct. 7 surprise attack on southern Israel and ensuing massacre of some 1,200 people, and the freeing of Palestinian prisoners held in Israel.

The Philippines urged all concerned parties to immediately implement urgent solutions that would prevent the conflict from further escalating, spreading and protracting, emphasizing that it is in the interest of Israeli and Palestinian civilians, as well as all states in the region, to ensure that this conflict does not extend beyond Gaza and risk engulfing the wider region in conflict.