Metro Manila, Philippines – The Philippines has called for a “rapid and unhindered” delivery of humanitarian assistance in the war-torn Gaza Strip.
The United Nations (UN) has said that aid has not been handed out to Palestinians as of Tuesday, despite Israel’s remark that it would permit aid to enter after an 11-week blockade.
READ: Pope Leo appeals for Israel to allow humanitarian aid in Gaza
In a statement on Friday, May 23, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) appealed to support the UN in fulfilling its humanitarian mandate.
“Humanitarian response must be based on impartial needs assessments and guided by the principles of neutrality, humanity, and accountability,” the DFA said.
“Humanitarian aid must reach the civilian population of Gaza – particularly the most vulnerable, including the sick, women, children, the elderly, and persons with disabilities – without discrimination and in accordance with international humanitarian law,” the agency stressed.
The Philippines also noted that it continues to back a two-state solution as the answer to achieve a “just, lasting, and comprehensive peace” in the area.
Gaza and Israel have been in conflict since October 2023 following militant group Hamas’ attack in the country over its occupation of Palestinian territories.
