UK criticises delays to Gaza aid after shipment of tents takes more than a year to arrive

The UK government has expressed sharp concern over prolonged delays to humanitarian aid entering Gaza, after a shipment of more than one thousand tents funded by the UK took over a year to reach the territory. Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper said the holdups were unacceptable, particularly as living conditions inside Gaza remain dire despite the ceasefire between Israel and Hamas.

The tents, each able to shelter a family of five, arrived in Gaza on Monday, with more expected in the coming days. Government officials said the shipment will help protect up to twelve thousand people as harsh winter weather sets in. Cooper said the long wait for the tents reflected a wider pattern of delays affecting UK-funded assistance, and called for all border crossings into Gaza to be opened to ensure unhindered humanitarian access.

She described the humanitarian situation as deteriorating, noting that heavy rain, cold temperatures, and widespread destruction have left families exposed. Many residents, she said, have been trying to protect their children under damaged roofs or out in the open. The United Nations has warned that one and a half million people urgently need shelter, with conditions worsening as winter approaches.

Cooper said the latest deliveries were the result of months of work by international organisations pushing for greater access. She added that it was frustrating to see consignments stuck for long periods at border points earlier this year and insisted that such delays cannot continue. She also urged renewed efforts to implement the broader peace plan and move toward a political resolution.

Nearly one point nine million people, around ninety percent of Gaza’s population, have been displaced since the conflict began in October 2023, according to the UN. Humanitarian agencies say the majority of families lack proper shelter and rely on temporary coverings that offer little protection from wind and rain.

Jonathan Veitch, Unicef’s Special Representative to the State of Palestine, said that despite the ceasefire, daily conditions remain extremely difficult. He noted that children are among the most vulnerable and that many families are living in dangerous and unsanitary environments. While he welcomed the arrival of UK funded tents, he said far more assistance is still required to meet urgent needs.

Israel rejected suggestions that it is responsible for delays. Cogat, the Israeli defence body responsible for Gaza crossings, said it has facilitated the transfer of close to two hundred and fifty thousand tents and tarpaulins in recent months. The agency said hundreds of aid trucks enter the territory daily carrying food, fuel, water, medical supplies and shelter equipment. It added that it has approved one hundred thousand pallet requests for winter items and sanitation supplies, saying many of the shipments are ready to move pending coordination from international organisations.

The UK says it will continue pushing for expanded access to ensure that critical aid reaches Gaza’s residents without further delays.