MANILA, May 23 (NNN-PNA) – The Philippines, today, called for the “full, safe, rapid, and unhindered delivery” of humanitarian assistance to the Palestinian civilian population, throughout the Gaza Strip.
“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 Philippines’ Department of Foreign Affairs said, in a statement.
The Philippines underscored that, the provision of humanitarian assistance must remain under the leadership of the United Nations and other internationally mandated actors.
It added that, humanitarian response must be based on impartial needs assessments, and guided by the principles of neutrality, humanity, and accountability.
The Philippines also called on all parties to support the United Nations, in meeting its humanitarian mandate.
The United Nations said, about 90 truckloads of aid had entered Gaza by yesterday, the first significant delivery of food that Israel has allowed in, after a two-month blockade that deepened the humanitarian crisis there.
The Philippines said, it supports a two-state solution, consistent with United Nations General Assembly Resolution 181 and other relevant UN resolutions, as the only viable path towards a just, lasting, and comprehensive peace in the region.– NNN-PNA
