Cairo: The Arab League and the United Nations Office for Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) discussed today the humanitarian situation in Palestine, Lebanon, Syria, and Sudan.

According to Qatar News Agency, the meeting was held between Assistant Secretary-General of the Arab League States, Ambassador Hossam Zaki, and UN Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs and Emergency Relief Coordinator, Tom Fletcher. Fletcher is visiting the region to assess the current situation and the challenges facing humanitarian relief operations in Palestine.

The Arab League’s statement highlighted that the meeting occurred amid serious developments, more than a year after Israel’s aggression on Gaza, alongside ongoing crises in Arab countries that demand increased humanitarian efforts. These efforts aim to respond effectively to the needs of these regions.

During the meeting, Zaki recognized OCHA’s efforts, emphasizing the importance of collective action and cooperation in supporting these countries. He advocated for a comprehensive response plan to mitigate the economic, social, and humanitarian impacts affecting the region.

Fletcher provided an overview of the situation in Gaza, Lebanon, Syria, and Sudan, based on his visits and consultations. He noted that nearly 25 million people in Sudan require humanitarian assistance due to escalating conflict and restricted humanitarian access. He also highlighted the destruction in Gaza, particularly in the healthcare sector, stressing the urgency of addressing these critical needs with the involvement of relevant UN agencies.