Published on: 2026-09-16
Source: United Nations – Объединенные Нации –
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September 16, 2026 Peace and Security
In the city of Gaza, a search and rescue operation is underway among the ruins of a building previously damaged during a bombing. At least 20 people died as a result of its collapse.
This incident once again drew attention to the extremely dire situation of displaced Palestinians in Gaza, who are forced to seek shelter wherever they can, including in buildings damaged during the war between Israel and Hamas militants.
“I am shocked by reports of people trapped under the rubble,” said Ramiz Alakbarov, the Acting UN Special Coordinator for the Middle East Peace Process. According to him, at the time of the collapse, there were about 100 people in the building, including 50 children.
Emergency assistance
Alakbarov noted the prompt response of the humanitarian community, which quickly mobilized efforts to support emergency rescue operations: Egypt provided heavy construction equipment, and the United Arab Emirates and Qatar are preparing humanitarian aid deliveries.
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) also sent available equipment and workers in the sector to assist in rescue operations.
“Relying on limited resources in Gaza, we will provide survivors with healthcare assistance and temporary housing, as well as supply them with other essential goods and services,” Alakbarov said. “People can still be saved, and every effort must be made to reach those who remain trapped under the rubble.”
Mobilization of efforts ahead of the rainy season
A UN representative reminded that people live in damaged and unsafe shelters throughout the Gaza Strip.
“Today’s tragedy highlights the serious risks faced by families living in such buildings and the urgent need to find safer alternatives,” he said. “No one should risk their life in search of a safe place to shelter.”
Ahead of the rainy season, humanitarian organizations are helping people who have decided to move from semi-destroyed and flood-prone buildings to safer locations.
“I call for the urgent provision of heavy machinery, specialized equipment, motor oil, and fuel necessary for conducting search and rescue operations,” Alakbarov stated, adding that within the next four weeks, tents, tarpaulin, and construction materials must also be delivered to the sector.
“We need to make every possible effort to save lives, protect people from further hardships, and provide families with safer housing,” he emphasized. “Every minute matters.”
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