The “humanitarian disaster continues in Gaza despite the ceasefire,” the head of the United Nations Office for Programme Support Services (UNOPS) said today, calling for unimpeded access to humanitarian aid destined for the devastated Palestinian territory.

“The humanitarian disaster continues in Gaza, even though the ceasefire has provided a welcome respite,” Jorge Moreira da Silva, also UN Deputy Secretary-General, said at the end of a visit to the region.

He called for a “permanent ceasefire”, for “the immediate release of all hostages” and for “rapid and unimpeded access” for humanitarian aid.