The United Nations has warned that more than 900 Israeli checkpoints and other barriers are delaying humanitarian aid deliveries in the occupied West Bank.
The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) said the network includes checkpoints, gates, roadblocks and other restrictions.
According to OCHA, these barriers are disrupting humanitarian operations. As a result, people in need are struggling to receive essential services and assistance.
Aid Access Remains Difficult in Qusra
UN humanitarian partners are also facing difficulties reaching three Palestinian families in Qusra, south of Nablus.
The families have remained trapped in their homes since Tuesday. Their situation followed the establishment of a checkpoint near their homes and tighter restrictions in the area.
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UN partners are working with municipal staff to deliver essential supplies. These include food, water, infant formula, medicines and hygiene items.
However, OCHA said those efforts have so far failed to reach the trapped families.
UN Warns About Settler Violence
The UN also warned that efforts to protect Palestinians have remained ineffective.
OCHA referred to reports that settlers had rebuilt a tent in the area. Israeli forces had removed the tent last Thursday, according to the UN office.
The situation has added to concerns about Palestinian safety in the northern West Bank.
Humanitarian conditions in the area have become increasingly difficult, OCHA said.
Thousands Receive Child Protection Support
Despite the challenges, child protection partners have continued to provide support.
Since the start of the year, they have assisted about 30,000 children and 15,000 adults.
The assistance includes psychological support, case management and services for children with disabilities.
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These services aim to help vulnerable families cope with the effects of violence, displacement and other humanitarian pressures.
Humanitarian Needs Also Rising in Gaza
OCHA also reported continued humanitarian work in Gaza.
Humanitarian workers are providing essential assistance despite insecurity and access restrictions.
During the past week, UN agencies and their partners moved quickly to support people who lost shelter or were displaced after attacks, home fires and other incidents.
More than 12 reported incidents linked to Israeli attacks caused people to lose their homes or property.
Those incidents affected about 290 families, according to OCHA.
Fires and New Barriers Affect Families
Two families were also affected by fires inside homes.
OCHA said unsafe cooking practices contributed to the fires. Families often rely on inadequate energy sources for cooking.
In addition, newly installed yellow concrete blocks affected five more families.
The UN said such measures can contribute to displacement in Gaza. They can also signal an expansion of areas where Israeli authorities restrict access.
The UN continues to call for humanitarian access so that essential assistance can reach civilians affected by the conflict.
