In Gaza, healthcare is in crisis. Since 7 October 2023, 94 per cent of hospitals have been damaged or destroyed. Subsequent limitations on humanitarian access have left remaining healthcare services in a perilous state, struggling to provide care for the more than 42,000 people who have suffered life-changing injuries. Essential services in the West Bank also remain under considerable strain.

In response, UNOPS and the government of Japan have partnered to help facilitate the movement of life-saving aid and personnel, and deliver essential medical supplies to healthcare facilities.

The $3.8 million project will address critical priority areas by facilitating 24/7 personnel movement across the West Bank and Gaza through the Access Support Unit, while streamlining the entry and verification of relief goods via the UN2720 Mechanism.

To bolster urgent healthcare needs, the initiative will deliver essential medicines and medical equipment to facilities treating thousands of injured patients. Furthermore, the project will provide vital rehabilitation assistance by supplying individuals with mobility challenges – including children – with assistive technology kits, such as wheelchairs, crutches and other necessary mobility aids.

“UNOPS is proud to partner with Japan on this important effort … [to] address some of the most pressing needs and constraints in Gaza and the West Bank today,” said Ms. Karuna Herrmann, Director of UNOPS Jerusalem.

Mr. Araike Katsuhiko, Japan’s Ambassador for Palestinian Affairs, said: “The government of Japan upholds the commitment of the international community to the hard-earned peace reflected in UN Security Council Resolution 2803 and facilitating humanitarian access through the UN2720 Mechanism for Gaza as well as the West Bank through its partnership with UNOPS.”

“The project will deliver essential medical supplies and assistive technologies to those who underwent life-changing injuries,” he added.

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