NEW YORK, 12th November, 2024 (WAM) -- Unexploded ordnance remains pose a long-term threat in Gaza, hindering future activities, reconstruction and recovery in the Strip, which requires an urgent response once the current war ends, Takuto Kubo, Chief of the Programme Management and Support Section at the United Nations Mine Action Service (UNMAS), said.
In statements, Kubo highlighted the efforts of the United Nations to address the risks of mines and unexploded ordnance in the Strip. He pointed out that UNMAS conducted 379 explosive hazard assessments and accompanied 271 humanitarian convoys to Gaza, where its teams observed explosive remnants of unexploded shells and rockets.
Despite the risk assessment and education efforts, ordnance disposal remains currently impossible due to security conditions. Efforts focus on raising awareness of the dangers of munitions and placing signs to warn civilians, with support from organisations such as UNICEF and local partners.
Kubo noted that challenges include insecurity, staff displacement, lack of equipment and power and communications outages. He said UNMAS is also providing support in the West Bank due to the increasing use of explosive materials in incursions.