Get all your news in one place.
100’s of premium titles.
One app.
Start reading
Top News
Top News
Politics

UN Official Urges Improved Cooperation Between IDF And Ngos

Israel Defense Forces handout at Al Shifa hospital in Gaza City

A top United Nations official has raised concerns over the lack of understanding and mistrust between the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) and humanitarian organizations operating in Gaza. The UN Humanitarian Coordinator in the Occupied Palestinian Territories, Jamie McGoldrick, emphasized the need to address these issues to ensure the safety of humanitarian workers.

McGoldrick pointed out that the recent deadly Israeli strike on nonprofit World Central Kitchen, which resulted in the deaths of seven workers, has heightened fears among humanitarian workers in Gaza. He also mentioned an attack on a UNICEF convoy as another alarming incident.

According to McGoldrick, the IDF's unfamiliarity with humanitarian operations in such environments has led to a lack of understanding of how these organizations function and their objectives. He stressed the importance of bridging the gap in communication and trust between the IDF and NGOs.

Following a meeting with the head of the IDF Southern Command, Maj. Gen. Yaron Finkelman, McGoldrick discussed various issues, including the need for clearer markings on NGO-affiliated vehicles and concerns over weapons discipline. The meeting aimed to address the challenges faced by humanitarian workers and improve coordination between the IDF and NGOs.

McGoldrick highlighted the risks posed by inadequate communication infrastructure within Gaza, underscoring the importance of enhancing communication channels to ensure the safety and effectiveness of humanitarian operations in the region.

Sign up to read this article
Read news from 100’s of titles, curated specifically for you.
Already a member? Sign in here
Related Stories
Top stories on inkl right now
One subscription that gives you access to news from hundreds of sites
Already a member? Sign in here
Our Picks
Fourteen days free
Download the app
One app. One membership.
100+ trusted global sources.