Takuto Kubo, head of the UN Program Management and Support Section, stated that the presence of unexploded ordnance across Gaza could severely hinder future recovery and reconstruction efforts. According to Kubo, teams from the UN Mine Action Service, in cooperation with organizations like UNICEF and local partners, have conducted 379 explosive hazard assessments and escorted 271 humanitarian convoys into Gaza to help alleviate immediate risks to civilians.

During their operations, these UN teams reported finding numerous remnants of unexploded projectiles that could obstruct essential rebuilding activities in Gaza. “This poses a significant obstacle to recovery efforts, and without urgent intervention, will leave civilians exposed to dangerous remnants of war,” said Kubo.

While the UN has ramped up risk assessment and awareness efforts, Kubo stressed that the disposal of unexploded ordnance remains the “most pressing problem” yet is currently unaddressable due to the volatile security situation in Gaza. The teams’ limited operations face additional setbacks, including staff displacements, a lack of equipment, and recurring power and communications blackouts.

The UN’s call for urgent international support underlines the need for a structured and immediate plan to address unexploded ordnance in Gaza as soon as conditions permit, ensuring the safety and sustainability of reconstruction efforts for the region’s residents. (ILKHA)