The Italian Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Antonio Tajani, has allocated two new funding packages of EUR 5 million each in favour of UNICEF and the World Health Organization (WHO), with the aim of strengthening Italy’s contribution to healthcare assistance for the Palestinian population affected by the conflict in the Gaza Strip. This initiative follows the recent meeting held by the Minister with Italian medical personnel operating in Gaza. The measures will be formalised by the signature of Deputy Minister Edmondo Cirielli, who is responsible for Development Cooperation.
The first Italian contribution will support: the administration of vaccines – continuing the assistance already provided last year during the polio vaccination campaign; the supply of medical materials and training for medical staff; support for El Helou Hospital in Gaza; provision of services for over 60 neonatal cases per month; and dedicated assistance for pregnant women.
The second contribution will focus on: primary and secondary healthcare for various conditions; disease prevention; and support for health facilities, including the supply of medical equipment.
These financial commitments add to over EUR 110 million already allocated since the beginning of the crisis to assist the Palestinian population, particularly through the “Food for Gaza” initiative launched by Italy. This initiative aims to alleviate civilian suffering through the provision of emergency humanitarian aid to people in the Gaza Strip, in collaboration with the Italian cooperation system and the United Nations hub in Rome.
