The United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) has called on the international community and all donors to assist in providing essential food and aid to millions of Palestinians in the Gaza Strip.

Following a fragile ceasefire established on January 19 between Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas, the WFP has delivered over 15,000 tons of food, reaching more than 525,000 individuals in need.

Carl Skau, the Deputy Executive Director of the WFP, emphasized the urgency of continued support for humanitarian assistance during his recent visit to Gaza.

He indicated that while progress has been made, the needs within the region remain substantial.

"The scale of the needs is enormous and progress must be maintained.

The ceasefire must hold," Skau stated.

In addition to food security, the WFP highlighted the critical necessity for assistance in sectors such as water, sanitation, shelter, and education, underlining that adequate funding is crucial for comprehensive recovery efforts.

Skau mentioned the importance of helping Gazans achieve self-sufficiency through the re-establishment of commercial markets and the rejuvenation of local food systems, including farming and fishing.

The appeal for support comes as negotiations between Israel and Hamas continue regarding the second phase of the ceasefire agreement.

This ceasefire came after 15 months of intense conflict that began following a deadly attack by Hamas on October 7, 2023. The WFP's ongoing humanitarian efforts are vital as the Gaza Strip grapples with the aftermath of the violence and seeks to rebuild its infrastructure and communities.