UN warns of major bottleneck as single approved crossing limits aid into Gaza

The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) told the briefing that Karim Abu Salim crossing (referred to in the transcript with variant spellings) remained the sole entry point for UN‑approved supplies into Gaza during the reported period, contributing to a significant bottleneck.

The spokesperson said construction works and restrictions on certain critical items — including power generators and spare parts — were limiting the flow of aid. Some items have been unblocked after recent discussions with Israeli authorities, the briefing said, including equipment to better identify malnutrition.

OCHA also reported incidents over the weekend that damaged a UN school yard sheltering displaced families in Jabalia camp and noted that newly displaced families often arrived without tents or belongings. Humanitarian teams have activated UN response mechanisms to provide quick support.

Why it matters: Limited crossings and item bans can delay food, medical supplies, shelter and malnutrition screening equipment, increasing the humanitarian toll. The briefing underscored ongoing constraints on sustained humanitarian access.

The briefing did not provide a comprehensive list of items still banned nor exact throughput capacities at the crossing; those technical details were not specified.