UN humanitarian agencies are ramping up efforts in Gaza as winter approaches, responding to urgent calls from Civil Defense teams amid ongoing conflict. On December 1, 2025, the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) coordinated rescue operations in Gaza City's Tufah neighborhood, evacuating injured civilians following a distress alert. While details of the incident remain unclear, the operation underscores the dire need for medical support in the region.
The World Health Organization (WHO) recently facilitated the evacuation of 18 critically ill patients and 54 companions from Gaza for overseas treatment. However, over 16,500 patients still require life-saving care unavailable locally. OCHA warns that restricted border access continues to hinder medical evacuations, urging all crossings to open for emergency aid.
Humanitarian partners have distributed tens of thousands of winter supplies since October 2025, including clothing, blankets, and footwear, to vulnerable children. With temperatures dropping, agencies emphasize the need for sustained aid delivery to displaced families facing harsh conditions.
In the West Bank, OCHA reports growing concerns over Israeli military operations in Tubas and Jenin governorates. Recent displacements, water infrastructure damage, and commercial closures have exacerbated hardships for Palestinian families. At least 23 families were displaced in the past 48 hours as homes were converted into military posts.
As the crisis enters its third year, international organizations reiterate calls for unimpeded humanitarian access and long-term solutions to address Gaza's collapsing healthcare system and housing shortages.
