PH calls for immediate, unimpeded aid access to Gaza

The Philippines called Friday for a swift and unhampered delivery of humanitarian aid to war-torn Gaza following weeks of Israel-imposed blockade, which prompted serious concerns from the international community.

"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," a Department of Foreign Affairs statement said.

Assistance to Gaza, the DFA said, must remain under the leadership of the United Nations, which earlier described the lack of immediate access to food and other basic necessities as having a "disastrous toll" on Palestinians.

"Humanitarian response must be based on impartial needs assessments and guided by the principles of neutrality, humanity, and accountability," the DFA said as it called for a "full, safe, rapid, and unhindered" provision of assistance to the Palestinian civilian population throughout the Gaza Strip.

Since March 2, food, medicine and fuel were restricted in Gaza. Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said "basic amount of food" will be allowed into Gaza, but stated his country plans to take control of the territory.

Britain, France and Canada criticized Israel for "denial of essential humanitarian assistance to the civilian population," calling it "unacceptable and risks breaching International Humanitarian Law."

The war in Gaza was triggered by Hamas' surprise assault that killed 1,200 Israelis and some Filipinos, in October 7. Israel's relentless offensives in retaliation to the Hamas attacks resulted to at least 53,000 deaths, mostly civilians, and displaced a huge number of the territory's 2.3 million residents.

All parties, the DFA said, must support the UN in meeting its humanitarian mandate in Gaza.

"Safeguarding the operational integrity, independence, and effectiveness of UN entities is essential to preserving the legitimacy and credibility of the UN system and its ability to respond meaningfully to humanitarian needs around the world," it said.

The DFA said the Philippines continues to support a two-state solution, consistent with UN General Assembly Resolution 181 and other relevant UN resolutions.

A two-state system is "the only viable path toward a just, lasting, and comprehensive peace in the region," the DFA said.