(MENAFN) As winter draws closer, the humanitarian situation in the Gaza Strip remains extremely severe, according to the UN on Tuesday, with persistent conflict further obstructing relief operations and causing increasing displacement throughout Gaza and the occupied West Bank.

UN spokesperson Stephane Dujarric informed journalists that the Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) and its humanitarian partners are striving to expand support for civilians — particularly for young people — who have "suffered immensely" over the last two years.

Over the previous two months, Dujarric noted that partner organizations have distributed tens of thousands of essential supplies to help residents brace for colder temperatures.

These provisions — such as footwear, garments, blankets, and towels — have reached children in various parts of the enclave.

He further stated, "And during the last 10 days of November, 160 activity tents were distributed, enabling thousands of children to access mental health and psychosocial support activities and case management services."

Addressing the health situation, Dujarric explained that a medical delegation from the World Health Organization (WHO) facilitated the evacuation of 18 patients along with 54 accompanying individuals from Gaza to receive medical treatment abroad.

He said, "WHO said that more than 16,500 patients still need life-saving care outside of the Gaza Strip.

"We continue to call for the opening of all available border crossings and corridors – including so that patients can seek treatment in the West Bank – and stress the need for unimpeded access for international emergency medical teams to enter Gaza," he added.

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