New York, September 30 (QNA) - Acting United Nations Special Coordinator for the Middle East Peace Process Ramiz Alakbarov warned that the population of the Gaza Strip continues to face a complex humanitarian crisis despite some progress in the entry of food supplies, pointing to persistent issues regarding water, sanitation, shelter, and waste management, alongside a high reliance on aid and cash transfers due to the lack of recovery in the labor market.

In an interview with UN News, Alakbarov explained that the UN continues its work in Gaza across the sectors of water, sanitation, health, debris removal, education, and support for farmers, noting that more than 300,000 children are receiving education in temporary spaces, while only a limited amount of land is available for agricultural activity.

He said that the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) continues to operate in Gaza despite the restrictions imposed on it, pointing out that more than 8,000 people remain missing under the rubble in the Strip.

Alakbarov conveyed the desire of Gaza’s residents not to spend another winter in tents, but rather to return to school and work, contribute to rebuilding their community, and regain access to water, sanitation, and electricity services.

In the West Bank, the UN Coordinator described the situation as "highly fragile," citing ongoing Israeli settlement activity, violence, movement restrictions, and economic pressures.

He indicated that the UN is providing grants, cash assistance, and legal support to affected families and communities.

Regarding the political track, he affirmed that there is no alternative to the two-state solution, stressing the need to address the Palestinian issue comprehensively, rebuild trust, halt incitement to violence, and support the unity of Palestinian institutions, emphasizing the importance of supporting Palestinian elections, viewing them as a key element in advancing the political horizon. (QNA)