Aysu Bicer
28 January 2025•Update: 28 January 2025
LONDON
The UK government on Tuesday unveiled a £17 million ($21 million) humanitarian aid package to bolster relief efforts in Gaza, as the recent ceasefire allows operations to expand, according to an official statement on Tuesday.
The funding will ensure thousands of civilians receive urgent healthcare, food, and shelter, while also supporting vital infrastructure projects across the occupied Palestinian territories.
As part of the package, £2 million will be allocated to the World Bank to help restore and construct critical water and energy infrastructure across the occupied Palestinian territories, including in Gaza.
Development Minister Anneliese Dodds emphasized that the UK is seizing the opportunity presented by the ceasefire to increase aid deliveries and push for the release of all hostages while working towards a viable Palestinian state.
"The scale of suffering in Gaza cannot be overstated and the UN and its agencies, including UNRWA, must be allowed by Israel to do their vital work. This announcement is part of the UK’s investment in the ceasefire deal, scaling up aid operations and helping the most desperate people access healthcare, water, food and shelter," she said.
"We must seize this opportunity to get a surge of humanitarian aid to Gaza, all the hostages released and a path towards a viable Palestinian state," she added.
The UK has provided £41 million ($51 million) in funding for UNRWA this financial year, supporting its operations in healthcare, education, and social services for Palestinian refugees.
David Wightwick, CEO of UK-Med, described the crisis in Gaza as one of the worst humanitarian disasters he has witnessed in over two decades of humanitarian work.
“That’s why UK Government funding is vital in providing support to UK-Med to deliver life-saving care to over 300,000 patients in Gaza during 2024,” Wightwick stated.
“I want to thank our 400-strong team on the ground for their determination, professionalism, and tireless work in addressing the health impacts of this devastating conflict.”
