Yarmouk Updates from our spokesperson Chris Gunness

"UNRWA is encouraged by the recent resumption of its food distribution to Yarmouk's civilians and appreciates the Syrian authorities' substantial efforts to make possible this positive development. UNRWA is seeking assurances that the facilitation of its humanitarian efforts inside Yarmouk will be sustained indefinitely, for the sake of the civilians trapped there.

"To address the profound suffering experienced by civilians trapped in Yarmouk, UNRWA calls for the distribution of humanitarian assistance to continue without interruption. If facilitation and safe conditions are assured and maintained, UNRWA has the capacity fully to meet the humanitarian needs of civilians in Yarmouk."

30 March 2015

"UNRWA was not able to distribute humanitarian assistance in Yarmouk on 30 March 2014.

29 March 2015

"UNRWA was not able to distribute humanitarian assistance in Yarmouk on 29 March 2015.

28 March 2015

"UNRWA distributed food parcels to 453 civilian families in Yarmouk on 28 March, with the facilitation of Syrian authorities.

"The food parcels contained quantities of jam and Plumpy Doz, a nutritional supplement for children, the latter kindly provided by WFP. 123 civilians were also treated by UNRWA medical personnel at the temporary health point. This was the third day of UNRWA distribution since 21 March. It took place in the distribution area in the Malak area of Palestine Street, inside Yarmouk, accessed through the eastern entrance of Tadamoun, which Syrian authorities have directed UNRWA to use since early March.

"The distribution team arrived at the staging area in Tadamoun at 11:10, with distribution commencing at 12:50 Distribution was brought to a close at 16:25 without incident and the UNRWA team returned safely to the UNRWA Syria Field Office at 16:57.

"To address the profound suffering experienced by civilians trapped in Yarmouk, UNRWA calls for the distribution of humanitarian assistance to continue in safe conditions and without interruption. If facilitation and safe conditions are assured and maintained, UNRWA has the capacity fully to meet the humanitarian needs of an estimated 18,000 civilians in Yarmouk."

27 March 2015

"UNRWA distributed food parcels to 395 civilian families in Yarmouk on 27 March, with the facilitation of Syrian authorities.

"The food parcels contained quantities of jam and Plumpy Doz, a nutritional supplement for children, the latter kindly provided by WFP. 112 civilians were also treated by UNRWA medical personnel at the temporary health point. This was the second day of UNRWA distribution since 21 March. It took place in the distribution area in the Malak area of Palestine Street, inside Yarmouk, accessed through the eastern entrance of Tadamoun, which Syrian authorities have directed UNRWA to use since early March.

"The distribution team arrived at the staging area in Tadamoun at 11:08, with distribution commencing at 12:52 Distribution was brought to a close at 16:35 without incident and the UNRWA team returned safely to the UNRWA Syria Field Office at 17:15.

26 March 2015

"UNRWA distributed food parcels to 250 civilian families in Yarmouk on 26 March 2015, with the facilitation of Syrian authorities.

"The food parcels contained quantities of jam and Plumpy Doz, a nutritional supplement for children, the latter kindly provided by WFP. 106 civilians were also treated by UNRWA medical personnel at the temporary health point. This was the first day of UNRWA distribution since 21 March. It took place in the distribution area in the Malak area of Palestine Street, inside Yarmouk, accessed through the eastern entrance of Tadamoun, which Syrian authorities have directed UNRWA to use since early March.

"The distribution team arrived at the staging area in Tadamoun at 10:50, with distribution commencing at 11:30 Distribution was brought to a close at 16:35 without incident and the UNRWA team returned safely to the UNRWA Syria Field Office at 17:23.

25 March 2015

"UNRWA was not able to distribute humanitarian assistance in Yarmouk on 25 March 2015.

24 March 2015

"UNRWA was not able to distribute humanitarian assistance in Yarmouk on 24 March 2015.

22 - 23 March 2015

"UNRWA was not able to distribute humanitarian assistance in Yarmouk on the 22nd and the 23rd of March.

21 March 2015

"UNRWA distributed food parcels to 201 civilian families in Yarmouk on 21 March, with the facilitation of Syrian authorities.

"The food parcels contained quantities of jam and Plumpy Doz, a nutritional supplement for children, the latter kindly provided by WFP. 68 civilians were also treated by UNRWA medical personnel at the temporary health point. This was the third day of UNRWA distribution since 14 March. It took place in the distribution area in the Malak area of Palestine Street, inside Yarmouk, accessed through the eastern entrance of Tadamoun, which Syrian authorities have directed UNRWA to use since early March.

"The distribution team arrived at the staging area in Tadamoun at 10:32, with distribution commencing at 11:53 Distribution was brought to a close at 15:50 without incident and the UNRWA team returned safely to the UNRWA Syria Field Office at 16:28.

20 March 2015

"UNRWA distributed food parcels to 240 civilian families in Yarmouk on 20 March, with the facilitation of Syrian authorities.

"The food parcels contained quantities of jam and Plumpy Doz, a nutritional supplement for children, the latter kindly provided by WFP. 81 civilians were also treated by UNRWA medical personnel at the temporary health point. This was the second day of UNRWA distribution since 14 March. It took place in the distribution area in the Malak area of Palestine Street, inside Yarmouk, accessed through the eastern entrance of Tadamoun, which Syrian authorities have directed UNRWA to use since early March.

"The distribution team arrived at the staging area in Tadhamon at 10:50, with distribution commencing at 12:00. Distribution was brought to a close at 16:30 without incident and the UNRWA team returned safely to the UNRWA Syria Field Office at 17:13.

19 March 2015

"UNRWA distributed food parcels to 82 civilian families in Yarmouk on 19 March, with the facilitation of Syrian authorities. "

"The food parcels contained quantities of jam and Plumpy Doz, a nutritional supplement for children, the latter kindly provided by WFP. 35 civilians were also treated by UNRWA medical personnel at the temporary health point. This was the first day of UNRWA distribution since 14 March. It took place in the distribution area in the Malak area of Palestine Street, inside Yarmouk, accessed through the eastern entrance of Tadamoun, which Syrian authorities have directed UNRWA to use since early March.

"The distribution team arrived at the staging area in Tadhamon at 10:50, with distribution commencing at 12:30.

"The distribution was disrupted when a female civilian among a group preparing to approach the distribution area was seriously wounded by a bullet and reportedly died shortly afterwards from her wounds. The tragic incident occurred inside Yarmouk, approximately two- to three-hundred metres from the distribution area. Distribution was brought to a close early at 15:30 and the UNRWA team returned safely to the UNRWA Syria Field Office at 16:18.

"UNRWA condemns in the strongest possible terms those responsible for the tragic death of the civilian in Yarmouk. It is reprehensible that a civilian life was violently taken as she sought to receive humanitarian assistance for herself and her family. The thoughts of UNRWA staff are with her bereaved family.

18 March 2015

"UNRWA was not able to distribute humanitarian assistance in Yarmouk on 18 March.

17 March 2015

"UNRWA was not able to distribute humanitarian assistance in Yarmouk on 17 March.

16 March 2015

"UNRWA was not able to distribute humanitarian assistance in Yarmouk today, 16 March.

15 March 2015

Our spokesperson Chris Gunness has the following to say on the situation in Yarmouk Camp

"UNRWA was not able to distribute humanitarian assistance in Yarmouk today, 15 March.

14 March 2015

"UNRWA distributed food parcels and jars of jam to 246 families in Yarmouk yesterday, 14 March. 108 civilians were also treated by UNRWA medical personnel at the temporary health point. This was the eighth day of distribution since 5 March, following a prolonged period of interruption between 6 December, 2014 and 4 March, 2015.

"Syrian authorities and GAPAR directed UNRWA to enter Yarmouk via Tadhamon, an adjacent neighbourhood to the east. With the active facilitation and support of Syrian authorities, UNRWA used this route to safely reach the distribution area in the Malak area of Palestine Street, inside Yarmouk. Civilians received food parcels in a calm and orderly manner throughout the day, with no security incidents.

"The distribution team arrived at the staging area in Tadhamon at 10:27, with distribution commencing at 12:20 and concluding at 16:25. The distribution team returned safely to the UNRWA Syria Field Office at 17:00.

"UNRWA is encouraged by the continuation of its food distribution to Yarmouk's civilians and appreciates the Syrian authorities' substantial efforts to make possible this positive development. UNRWA is seeking assurances that the facilitation of its humanitarian efforts inside Yarmouk will be sustained indefinitely, for the sake of the civilians trapped there.

13 March 2015

"UNRWA distributed food parcels and jars of jam to 386 families in Yarmouk yesterday, 13 March. 110 civilians were also treated by UNRWA medical personnel at the temporary health point. This was the seventh day of distribution since 5 March, following a prolonged period of interruption between 6 December, 2014 and 4 March, 2015.

"The distribution team arrived at the staging area in Tadhamon at 10:30, with distribution commencing at 11:45 and concluding at 16:30. The distribution team returned safely to the UNRWA Syria Field Office at 17:10.

12 March 2015

"UNRWA distributed food parcels and jars of jam to 347 families in Yarmouk today, 12 March. 90 civilians were also treated by UNRWA medical personnel at the temporary health point. This was the sixth day of distribution since 5 March, following a prolonged period of interruption between 6 December, 2014 and 4 March, 2015.

"The distribution team arrived at the staging area in Tadhamon at 11:00, with distribution commencing at 11:45 and concluding at 16:15. The distribution team returned safely to the UNRWA Syria Field Office at 16:45.

11 March 2015

"UNRWA was not able to distribute humanitarian assistance in Yarmouk today, 11 March.

10 March 2015

"UNRWA distributed food parcels and jars of jam to 340 families in Yarmouk today, 10 March. 95 civilians were also treated by UNRWA medical personnel at the temporary health point. This was the fifth day of distribution since Thursday, following a prolonged period of interruption between 6 December, 2014 and 4 March, 2015.

"The distribution team arrived at the staging area in Tadhamon at 10:35, with distribution commencing at 11:39 and concluding at 16:00. The distribution team returned safely to the UNRWA Syria Field Office at 17:00.

"UNRWA is encouraged by the continuation of its food distribution to Yarmouk's civilians for a fifth day and appreciates the Syrian authorities' substantial efforts to make possible this positive development. UNRWA is seeking assurances that the facilitation of its humanitarian efforts inside Yarmouk will be sustained indefinitely, for the sake of the civilians trapped there.

9 March 2015

"UNRWA distributed food parcels and jars of jam to 334 families in Yarmouk today, 9 March. 98 civilians were also treated by UNRWA medical personnel at the temporary health point. This was the fourth day of distribution since Thursday, following a prolonged period of interruption between 6 December, 2014 and 4 March, 2015.

"UNRWA is encouraged by the continuation of its food distribution to Yarmouk's civilians for a fourth day and appreciates the Syrian authorities' substantial efforts to make possible this positive development. UNRWA is seeking assurances that the facilitation of its humanitarian efforts inside Yarmouk will be sustained indefinitely, for the sake of the civilians trapped there.

8 March 2015

"UNRWA was not able to distribute humanitarian assistance in Yarmouk today, 8 March.

7 March 2015

"UNRWA distributed food parcels and jars of jam to 423 families in Yarmouk today, 7 March. Quantities of chlorine tablets were distributed through the Palestinian Red Crescent Society (PRCS) and 105 civilians were also treated by UNRWA medical personnel at the temporary health point. This was the third consecutive day of distribution, following a prolonged period of interruption between 6 December, 2014 and 4 March, 2015.

"The distribution team arrived at the staging area in Tadhamon at 10:00, with distribution commencing at 12:00 and concluding at 17:00. The distribution team returned safely to the UNRWA Syria Field Office at 17:25.

"UNRWA is encouraged by the continuation of its food distribution to Yarmouk's civilians for a third day and appreciates the Syrian authorities' substantial efforts to make possible this positive development. UNRWA is seeking assurances that the facilitation of its humanitarian efforts inside Yarmouk will be sustained indefinitely, for the sake of the civilians trapped there.

6 March 2015

"UNRWA distributed food parcels and jars of jam to 427 families in Yarmouk today, 6 March. Over 60 civilians were also treated by UNRWA medical personnel at a newly established health point. This was the second consecutive day of distribution, following a prolonged period of interruption between 6 December, 2014 and 4 March, 2015.

"The distribution team arrived at the staging area in Tadhamon at 10:00, with distribution commencing at 12:05 and concluding at 16:40 due to fading daylight. The distribution team returned safely to the UNRWA Syria Field Office at 17:15.

"UNRWA is encouraged by the continuation of its food distribution to Yarmouk's civilians for a second day and appreciates the Syrian authorities' substantial efforts to make possible this positive development. UNRWA is seeking assurances that the facilitation of its humanitarian efforts inside Yarmouk will be sustained indefinitely, for the sake of the civilians trapped there.

5 March 2015

"UNRWA distributed food parcels and jars of jam to 339 families in Yarmouk today, 5 March. This was the first food distribution since 6 December, 2014.

"Syrian authorities and GAPAR directed UNRWA to enter Yarmouk via Tadhamon, an adjacent neighbourhood to the east. With the active facilitation and support of Syrian authorities, UNRWA used this route to safely reach a new distribution area in the Malak area of Palestine Street, inside Yarmouk. Civilians received food parcels in a calm and orderly manner throughout the day, with no security incidents.

"The distribution team arrived at the staging area in Tadhamon at 10:00, proceeding to the new distribution area inside Yarmouk at 10:50. Distribution commenced at 11:45, continued until 16:40 and was concluded due to fading daylight. The distribution team returned safely to the UNRWA Syria Field Office at 17:15.

"UNRWA welcomes the resumption of its food distribution to Yarmouk's civilians and appreciates the Syrian authorities' substantial efforts to make possible this positive development. UNRWA is seeking assurances that the facilitation of its humanitarian efforts inside Yarmouk will be sustained indefinitely, for the sake of the civilians trapped there.

"From tomorrow, 6 March, UNRWA will seek authorization to offer medical consultations to civilians coming to the distribution area, and to provide them with water purification tablets and medicines as well as food parcels.

4 March 2015

"UNRWA was not able to distribute humanitarian assistance in Yarmouk today, 4 March.

"UNRWA assesses the security situation in Yarmouk daily and requests relevant authorities to facilitate the distribution of humanitarian assistance to the civilian population. Over the previous two months, Yarmouk and its surrounding areas have seen a serious escalation in armed conflict, including frequent exchanges of fire and the use of heavy weapons, which have persistently disrupted the distribution of life-saving humanitarian aid to the 18,000 civilians trapped in the area. UNRWA remains deeply concerned that no successful distribution has been completed since 6 December 2014.

"Approximately 400 food parcels are required each day to meet the minimum food needs of this extremely vulnerable population. In 2014, on days when all concerned actors cooperated fully to give priority to meeting the humanitarian needs of civilians in Yarmouk, UNRWA proved capable of distributing up to 1,000 food parcels per day. To stop the suffering of Yarmouk’s civilians, UNRWA calls for this level of cooperation to resume, for the immediate cessation of armed hostilities in and around Yarmouk, and for all concerned parties to act in ways that promote the protection of Yarmouk’s civilians and give the utmost priority to their humanitarian needs."

3 March 2015

"UNRWA was not able to distribute humanitarian assistance in Yarmouk today, 3 March.

2 March 2015

"UNRWA was not able to distribute humanitarian assistance in Yarmouk today, 2 March.

27 February - 1 March 2015

"UNRWA was not able to distribute humanitarian assistance in Yarmouk on 27 or 28 February, due to persistent insecurity at the distribution point. UNRWA was again unable to distribute assistance in Yarmouk on 1 March.

26 February 2015

"UNRWA was not able to distribute humanitarian assistance in Yarmouk today, 26 February, due to persistent insecurity at the distribution point.

25 February 2015

"UNRWA was unable to distribute assistance in Yarmouk today, 25 February.

24 February 2015

"UNRWA was unable to distribute assistance in Yarmouk today, 24 February.

23 February 2015

"UNRWA was unable to distribute assistance in Yarmouk today, 23 February.

20 - 22 February 2015

"UNRWA was not able to distribute humanitarian assistance in Yarmouk on 20 or 21 February, due to persistent insecurity at the distribution point. UNRWA was again unable to distribute assistance in Yarmouk today, 22 February.

19 February 2015

"UNRWA was not able to distribute humanitarian assistance in Yarmouk today, 19 February, due to persistent insecurity at the distribution point.

18 February 2015

"UNRWA was not able to distribute humanitarian assistance in Yarmouk today, 18 February.

17 February 2015

"UNRWA was not able to distribute humanitarian assistance in Yarmouk today, 17 February.

16 February 2015

"UNRWA was not able to distribute humanitarian assistance in Yarmouk today, 16 February.

15 February 2015

Our spokesperson Chris Gunness has the following to say on the situation in Yarmouk Camp

"UNRWA was not able to distribute humanitarian assistance in Yarmouk today, 15 February.

13 - 14 February 2015

Our spokesperson Chris Gunness has the following to say on the situation in Yarmouk Camp

"UNRWA was not able to distribute humanitarian assistance in Yarmouk on 13 or 14 February, due to persistent insecurity at the distribution point.

12 February 2015

Our spokesperson Chris Gunness has the following to say on the situation in Yarmouk Camp

"UNRWA was not able to distribute humanitarian assistance in Yarmouk today, 12 February, due to persistent insecurity at the distribution point.

"UNRWA assesses the security situation in Yarmouk daily and requests relevant authorities to facilitate the distribution of humanitarian assistance to the civilian population. Over the previous month, Yarmouk and its surrounding areas have seen a serious escalation in armed conflict, including frequent exchanges of fire and the use of heavy weapons, which have persistently disrupted the distribution of life-saving humanitarian aid to the 18,000 civilians trapped in the area. UNRWA remains deeply concerned that no successful distribution has been completed since 6 December 2014.

"Approximately 400 food parcels are required each day to meet the minimum food needs of this extremely vulnerable population. In 2014, on days when all concerned actors cooperated fully to give priority to meeting the humanitarian needs of civilians in Yarmouk, UNRWA has proven capable of distributing up to 1,000 food parcels per day. To stop the suffering of Yarmouk’s civilians, UNRWA calls for this level of cooperation to resume, for the immediate cessation of armed hostilities in and around Yarmouk, and for all concerned parties to act in ways that promote the protection of Yarmouk’s civilians and give the utmost priority to their humanitarian needs.

11 February 2015

"UNRWA was not able to distribute humanitarian assistance in Yarmouk today, 11 February.

"UNRWA assesses the security situation in Yarmouk daily and requests relevant authorities to facilitate the distribution of humanitarian assistance to the civilian population. Over the previous month, Yarmouk and its surrounding areas have seen a serious escalation in armed conflict, including frequent exchanges of fire and the use of heavy weapons, which have persistently disrupted the distribution of life-saving humanitarian aid to the 18,000 civilians trapped in the area. UNRWA remains deeply concerned that no successful distribution has been completed since 6 December 2014.

"Approximately 400 food parcels are required each day to meet the minimum food needs of this extremely vulnerable population. In 2014, on days when all concerned actors cooperated fully to give priority to meeting the humanitarian needs of civilians in Yarmouk, UNRWA has proven capable of distributing up to 1,000 food parcels per day. To stop the suffering of Yarmouk’s civilians, UNRWA calls for this level of cooperation to resume, for the immediate cessation of armed hostilities in and around Yarmouk, and for all concerned parties to act in ways that promote the protection of Yarmouk’s civilians and give the utmost priority to their humanitarian needs.

10 February 2015

"UNRWA was not able to distribute humanitarian assistance in Yarmouk today, 10 February.

"UNRWA assesses the security situation in Yarmouk daily and requests relevant authorities to facilitate the distribution of humanitarian assistance to the civilian population. Over the previous month, Yarmouk and its surrounding areas have seen a serious escalation in armed conflict, including frequent exchanges of fire and the use of heavy weapons, which have persistently disrupted the distribution of life-saving humanitarian aid to the 18,000 civilians trapped in the area. UNRWA remains deeply concerned that no successful distribution has been completed since 6 December 2014.

"Approximately 400 food parcels are required each day to meet the minimum food needs of this extremely vulnerable population. In 2014, on days when all concerned actors cooperated fully to give priority to meeting the humanitarian needs of civilians in Yarmouk, UNRWA has proven capable of distributing up to 1,000 food parcels per day. To stop the suffering of Yarmouk’s civilians, UNRWA calls for this level of cooperation to resume, for the immediate cessation of armed hostilities in and around Yarmouk, and for all concerned parties to act in ways that promote the protection of Yarmouk’s civilians and give the utmost priority to their humanitarian needs.

9 February 2015

"UNRWA was not able to distribute humanitarian assistance in Yarmouk today, 9 February.

"UNRWA assesses the security situation in Yarmouk daily and requests relevant authorities to facilitate the distribution of humanitarian assistance to the civilian population. Over the previous month, Yarmouk and its surrounding areas have seen a serious escalation in armed conflict, including frequent exchanges of fire and the use of heavy weapons, which have persistently disrupted the distribution of life-saving humanitarian aid to the 18,000 civilians trapped in the area. UNRWA remains deeply concerned that no successful distribution has been completed since 6 December 2014.

"Approximately 400 food parcels are required each day to meet the minimum food needs of this extremely vulnerable population. In 2014, on days when all concerned actors cooperated fully to give priority to meeting the humanitarian needs of civilians in Yarmouk, UNRWA has proven capable of distributing up to 1,000 food parcels per day. To stop the suffering of Yarmouk’s civilians, UNRWA calls for this level of cooperation to resume, for the immediate cessation of armed hostilities in and around Yarmouk, and for all concerned parties to act in ways that promote the protection of Yarmouk’s civilians and give the utmost priority to their humanitarian needs.

8 February 2015

"UNRWA was not able to distribute humanitarian assistance in Yarmouk today, 8 February.

"UNRWA assesses the security situation in Yarmouk daily and requests relevant authorities to facilitate the distribution of humanitarian assistance to the civilian population. Over the previous month, Yarmouk and its surrounding areas have seen a serious escalation in armed conflict, including frequent exchanges of fire and the use of heavy weapons, which have persistently disrupted the distribution of life-saving humanitarian aid to the 18,000 civilians trapped in the area. UNRWA remains deeply concerned that no successful distribution has been completed since 6 December 2014.

"Approximately 400 food parcels are required each day to meet the minimum food needs of this extremely vulnerable population. In 2014, on days when all concerned actors cooperated fully to give priority to meeting the humanitarian needs of civilians in Yarmouk, UNRWA has proven capable of distributing up to 1,000 food parcels per day. To stop the suffering of Yarmouk’s civilians, UNRWA calls for this level of cooperation to resume, for the immediate cessation of armed hostilities in and around Yarmouk, and for all concerned parties to act in ways that promote the protection of Yarmouk’s civilians and give the utmost priority to their humanitarian needs.

5 - 7 February 2015

"UNRWA was not able to distribute humanitarian assistance between 5 and 7 February.

"UNRWA assesses the security situation in Yarmouk daily and requests relevant authorities to facilitate the distribution of humanitarian assistance to the civilian population. Over the previous month, Yarmouk and its surrounding areas have seen a serious escalation in armed conflict, including frequent exchanges of fire and the use of heavy weapons, which have persistently disrupted the distribution of life-saving humanitarian aid to the 18,000 civilians trapped in the area. UNRWA remains deeply concerned that no successful distribution has been completed since 6 December 2014.

"Approximately 400 food parcels are required each day to meet the minimum food needs of this extremely vulnerable population. In 2014, on days when all concerned actors cooperated fully to give priority to meeting the humanitarian needs of civilians in Yarmouk, UNRWA has proven capable of distributing up to 1,000 food parcels per day. To stop the suffering of Yarmouk’s civilians, UNRWA calls for this level of cooperation to resume, for the immediate cessation of armed hostilities in and around Yarmouk, and for all concerned parties to act in ways that promote the protection of Yarmouk’s civilians and give the utmost priority to their humanitarian needs.

4 February 2015

"UNRWA was not able to distribute humanitarian assistance today, 4 February.

"UNRWA assesses the security situation in Yarmouk daily and requests relevant authorities to facilitate the distribution of humanitarian assistance to the civilian population. Over the previous month, Yarmouk and its surrounding areas have seen a serious escalation in armed conflict, including frequent exchanges of fire and the use of heavy weapons, which have persistently disrupted the distribution of life-saving humanitarian aid to the 18,000 civilians trapped in the area. UNRWA remains deeply concerned that no successful distribution has been completed since 6 December 2014.

"Approximately 400 food parcels are required each day to meet the minimum food needs of this extremely vulnerable population. In 2014, on days when all concerned actors cooperated fully to give priority to meeting the humanitarian needs of civilians in Yarmouk, UNRWA has proven capable of distributing up to 1,000 food parcels per day. To stop the suffering of Yarmouk’s civilians, UNRWA calls for this level of cooperation to resume, for the immediate cessation of armed hostilities in and around Yarmouk, and for all concerned parties to act in ways that promote the protection of Yarmouk’s civilians and give the utmost priority to their humanitarian needs.

3 February 2015

"UNRWA was not able to distribute humanitarian assistance today, 3 February.

"UNRWA assesses the security situation in Yarmouk daily and requests relevant authorities to facilitate the distribution of humanitarian assistance to the civilian population. Over the previous month, Yarmouk and its surrounding areas have seen a serious escalation in armed conflict, including frequent exchanges of fire and the use of heavy weapons, which have persistently disrupted the distribution of life-saving humanitarian aid to the 18,000 civilians trapped in the area. UNRWA remains deeply concerned that no successful distribution has been completed since 6 December 2014.

"Approximately 400 food parcels are required each day to meet the minimum food needs of this extremely vulnerable population. In 2014, on days when all concerned actors cooperated fully to give priority to meeting the humanitarian needs of civilians in Yarmouk, UNRWA has proven capable of distributing up to 1,000 food parcels per day. To stop the suffering of Yarmouk’s civilians, UNRWA calls for this level of cooperation to resume, for the immediate cessation of armed hostilities in and around Yarmouk, and for all concerned parties to act in ways that promote the protection of Yarmouk’s civilians and give the utmost priority to their humanitarian needs.

31 January - 2 February 2015

"UNRWA was able to distribute a small number of food parcels in Yarmouk on 31 January. Despite persistent insecurity in the vicinity, a total of 25 parcels and supplementary foodstuffs were distributed in just over half an hour, before the risks to refugees and UNRWA staff became too great and the mission was brought to a close early. UNRWA was not able to distribute humanitarian assistance yesterday, 1 February, or today 2 February.

"UNRWA assesses the security situation in Yarmouk daily and requests relevant authorities to facilitate the distribution of humanitarian assistance to the civilian population. Over the previous month, Yarmouk and its surrounding areas have seen a serious escalation in armed conflict, including frequent exchanges of fire and the use of heavy weapons, which have persistently disrupted the distribution of life-saving humanitarian aid to the 18,000 civilians trapped in the area. UNRWA remains deeply concerned that no successful distribution has been completed since 6 December 2014.

"Approximately 400 food parcels are required each day to meet the minimum food needs of this extremely vulnerable population. In 2014, on days when all concerned actors cooperated fully to give priority to meeting the humanitarian needs of civilians in Yarmouk, UNRWA has proven capable of distributing up to 1,000 food parcels per day. To stop the suffering of Yarmouk’s civilians, UNRWA calls for this level of cooperation to resume, for the immediate cessation of armed hostilities in and around Yarmouk, and for all concerned parties to act in ways that promote the protection of Yarmouk’s civilians and give the utmost priority to their humanitarian needs.

27 - 30 January 2015

"UNRWA was not able to distribute humanitarian assistance in Yarmouk on 27 January. The Agency was nevertheless able to facilitate the return of students who had left Yarmouk on 23 and 24 January to sit school exams. All returning students were provided with UNRWA clothing kits, hygiene kits and food parcels for their families, as well as additional quantities of fresh food.

"UNRWA was not able to distribute any assistance to Yarmouk on 28, 29 or 30 January, due to persistent insecurity at the distribution point.

"UNRWA assesses the security situation in Yarmouk daily and requests relevant authorities to facilitate the distribution of humanitarian assistance to the civilian population. Over the previous month, Yarmouk and its surrounding areas have seen a serious escalation in armed conflict, including frequent exchanges of fire and the use of heavy weapons, which have persistently disrupted the distribution of life-saving humanitarian aid to the 18,000 civilians trapped in the area. UNRWA remains deeply concerned that no successful humanitarian distributions have taken place since 6 December.

"Approximately 400 food parcels are required each day to meet the minimum food needs of this extremely vulnerable population. In 2014, on days when all concerned actors cooperated fully to give priority to meeting the humanitarian needs of civilians in Yarmouk, UNRWA has proven capable of distributing up to 1,000 food parcels per day. To stop the suffering of Yarmouk’s civilians, UNRWA calls for this level of cooperation to resume, for the immediate cessation of armed hostilities in and around Yarmouk, and for all concerned parties to act in ways that promote the protection of Yarmouk’s civilians and give the utmost priority to their humanitarian needs."

26 January 2015

"UNRWA was not able to distribute humanitarian assistance in Yarmouk today, 26 January.

"Daily, UNRWA assesses the security situation in Yarmouk and requests relevant authorities to facilitate the distribution of humanitarian assistance to the civilian population. Over the previous month, Yarmouk and its surrounding areas have seen a serious escalation in armed conflict, including frequent exchanges of fire and the use of heavy weapons, which have persistently disrupted the distribution of life-saving humanitarian aid to the 18,000 civilians trapped in the area. UNRWA remains deeply concerned that no successful humanitarian distributions have taken place since 6 December.

"Approximately 400 food parcels are required each day to meet the minimum food needs of this extremely vulnerable population. In 2014, on days when all concerned actors cooperated fully to give priority to meeting the humanitarian needs of civilians in Yarmouk, UNRWA has proven capable of distributing up to 1,000 food parcels per day. To stop the suffering of Yarmouk’s civilians, UNRWA calls for this level of cooperation to resume, for the immediate cessation of armed hostilities in and around Yarmouk, and for all concerned parties to act in ways that promote the protection of Yarmouk’s civilians and give the utmost priority to their humanitarian needs."

23-25 January 2015

"UNRWA was not able to distribute humanitarian assistance in Yarmouk between 23 and 25 January.

"With the facilitation of the Syrian authorities and GAPAR, on 23 and 24 January UNRWA transported 67 students out of Yarmouk to sit their national school exams. UNRWA is providing support to these children for the duration of the examination period.

"UNRWA remains deeply concerned that no humanitarian distributions have taken place since 6 December.

"Approximately 400 food parcels are required each day to meet the minimum food needs of this extremely vulnerable population. In 2014, on days when all concerned actors cooperated fully to give priority to meeting the humanitarian needs of civilians in Yarmouk, UNRWA has proven capable of distributing up to 1,000 food parcels per day. To stop the suffering of Yarmouk’s civilians, UNRWA calls for this level of cooperation to resume, for the immediate cessation of armed hostilities in and around Yarmouk, and for all concerned parties to act in ways that promote the protection of Yarmouk’s civilians and give the utmost priority to their humanitarian needs."

22 January 2015

"UNRWA was not able to distribute humanitarian assistance in Yarmouk again today, 22 January.

"Daily, UNRWA assesses the security situation in Yarmouk and requests relevant authorities to facilitate the distribution of humanitarian assistance to the civilian population. Over the previous month, Yarmouk and its surrounding areas have seen a serious escalation in armed conflict, including frequent, heavy exchanges of fire and the use of heavy weapons, which have persistently disrupted the distribution of life-saving humanitarian aid to the 18,000 civilians trapped in the area.

"UNRWA remains deeply concerned that only 36 food parcels in total have been distributed over the previous six weeks. Other minimum human needs, including health care, NFIs and shelter are similarly unmet.

"Approximately 400 food parcels are required each day to meet the minimum food needs of this extremely vulnerable population. In 2014, on days when all concerned actors cooperated fully to give priority to meeting the food needs of civilians in Yarmouk, UNRWA has proven capable of distributing up to 1,000 food parcels per day. To stop the suffering of Yarmouk’s civilians, UNRWA calls for this level of cooperation to resume, for the immediate cessation of armed hostilities in and around Yarmouk, and for all concerned parties to act in ways that promote the protection of Yarmouk’s civilians and give the utmost priority to their humanitarian needs."

21 January 2015

"UNRWA was not able to distribute humanitarian assistance in Yarmouk again today, 21 January. The area was reportedly calmer today, with no reports of clashes.

"UNRWA has received credible reports of an increased incidence of jaundice in Yarmouk, which could be the result of a shortage of clean drinking water. UNRWA’s Health Department is working to verify the number of cases and possible causes.

"Daily, UNRWA assesses the security situation in Yarmouk and requests relevant authorities to facilitate the distribution of humanitarian assistance to the civilian population. Over the previous month, Yarmouk and its surrounding areas have seen a serious escalation in armed conflict, including frequent, heavy exchanges of fire and the use of heavy weapons, which have persistently disrupted the distribution of life-saving humanitarian aid to the 18,000 civilians trapped in the area.

"Approximately 400 food parcels are required each day to meet the minimum food needs of this extremely vulnerable population. In 2014, on days when all concerned actors cooperated fully to give priority to meeting the food needs of civilians in Yarmouk, UNRWA has proven capable of distributing up to 1,000 food parcels per day. To stop the suffering of Yarmouk’s civilians, UNRWA calls for this level of cooperation to resume, for the immediate cessation of armed hostilities in and around Yarmouk, and for all concerned parties to act in ways that promote the protection of Yarmouk’s civilians and give the utmost priority to their humanitarian needs."

20 January 2015

"UNRWA was not able to distribute humanitarian assistance in Yarmouk today, 20 January due to ongoing clashes in the vicinity of the distribution area.

"Daily, UNRWA assesses the security situation in Yarmouk and requests relevant authorities to facilitate the distribution of humanitarian assistance to the civilian population. Over the previous month, Yarmouk and its surrounding areas have seen a serious escalation in armed conflict, including frequent, heavy exchanges of fire and the use of heavy weapons, which have persistently disrupted the distribution of life-saving humanitarian aid to the 18,000 civilians trapped in the area.

"Approximately 400 food parcels are required each day to meet the minimum food needs of this extremely vulnerable population. In 2014, on days when all concerned actors cooperated fully to give priority to meeting the food needs of civilians in Yarmouk, UNRWA has proven capable of distributing up to 1,000 food parcels per day. To stop the suffering of Yarmouk’s civilians, UNRWA calls for this level of cooperation to resume, for the immediate cessation of armed hostilities in and around Yarmouk, and for all concerned parties to act in ways that promote the protection of Yarmouk’s civilians and give the utmost priority to their humanitarian needs."

19 January 2015

Our spokesperson Chris Gunness has the following to say on the situation in Yarmouk Camp

"UNRWA was not able to distribute humanitarian assistance in Yarmouk today, 19 January due to ongoing clashes in the vicinity of the distribution area.

"Daily, UNRWA assesses the security situation in Yarmouk and requests relevant authorities to facilitate the distribution of humanitarian assistance to the civilian population. Over the previous month, Yarmouk and its surrounding areas have seen a serious escalation in armed conflict, including frequent, heavy exchanges of fire and the use of heavy weapons, which have persistently disrupted the distribution of life-saving humanitarian aid to the 18,000 civilians trapped in the area.

"Approximately 400 food parcels are required each day to meet the minimum food needs of this extremely vulnerable population. In 2014, on days when all concerned actors cooperated fully to give priority to meeting the food needs of civilians in Yarmouk, UNRWA has proven capable of distributing up to 1,000 food parcels per day. To stop the suffering of Yarmouk’s civilians, UNRWA calls for this level of cooperation to resume, for the immediate cessation of armed hostilities in and around Yarmouk, and for all concerned parties to act in ways that promote the protection of Yarmouk’s civilians and give the utmost priority to their humanitarian needs."

15 - 18 January 2015

"UNRWA was not able to distribute humanitarian assistance in Yarmouk between 15 and 18 January due to ongoing clashes in the vicinity of the distribution area.

"Daily, UNRWA assesses the security situation in Yarmouk and requests relevant authorities to facilitate the distribution of humanitarian assistance to the civilian population. Over the previous month, Yarmouk and its surrounding areas have seen a serious escalation in armed conflict, including frequent, heavy exchanges of fire and the use of heavy weapons, which have persistently disrupted the distribution of life-saving humanitarian aid to the 18,000 civilians trapped in the area.

"Approximately 400 food parcels are required each day to meet the minimum food needs of this extremely vulnerable population. In 2014, on days when all concerned actors cooperated fully to give priority to meeting the food needs of civilians in Yarmouk, UNRWA has proven capable of distributing up to 1,000 food parcels per day. To stop the suffering of Yarmouk’s civilians, UNRWA calls for this level of cooperation to resume, for the immediate cessation of armed hostilities in and around Yarmouk, and for all concerned parties to act in ways that promote the protection of Yarmouk’s civilians and give the utmost priority to their humanitarian needs."

14 January 2015

"UNRWA was not able to distribute humanitarian assistance in Yarmouk today, 14 January, due to adverse weather conditions and ongoing hostilities in the area.

"Persistent armed violence in Yarmouk has now prevented UNRWA from conducting a successful distribution operation since 6 December, 2014.

"UNRWA assesses the security situation in Yarmouk daily and requests relevant authorities to facilitate the distribution of humanitarian assistance to the civilian population. Over the previous month, Yarmouk and its surrounding areas have seen a serious escalation in armed conflict, including frequent, heavy exchanges of fire and the use of heavy weapons, which have persistently disrupted the distribution of life-saving humanitarian aid to the 18,000 civilians trapped in the area.

"UNRWA remains deeply concerned that only 36 food parcels in total have been distributed over the previous four weeks. Approximately 400 food parcels are required each day to meet the minimum food needs of this extremely vulnerable population. Other basic needs, including access health care, non-food items and adequate shelter are similarly unmet.

13 January 2015

"UNRWA was not able to distribute humanitarian assistance in Yarmouk due to adverse weather conditions and ongoing hostilities in the area. Persistent armed violence in Yarmouk has now prevented UNRWA from conducting a successful distribution operation since 6 December, 2014.

"UNRWA assesses the security situation in Yarmouk daily and requests relevant authorities to facilitate the distribution of humanitarian assistance to the civilian population. Over the previous month, Yarmouk and its surrounding areas have seen a serious escalation in armed conflict, including frequent, heavy exchanges of fire and the use of heavy weapons, which have persistently disrupted the distribution of life-saving humanitarian aid to the 18,000 civilians trapped in the area.

12 January 2015

"UNRWA assesses the security situation in Yarmouk daily and requests relevant authorities to facilitate the distribution of humanitarian assistance to the civilian population. Over the previous month, Yarmouk and its surrounding areas have seen a serious escalation in armed conflict, including frequent, heavy exchanges of fire and the use of heavy weapons, which have persistently disrupted the distribution of life-saving humanitarian aid to the 18,000 civilians trapped in the area.

11 January 2015

"UNRWA assesses the security situation in Yarmouk daily and requests relevant authorities to facilitate the distribution of humanitarian assistance to the civilian population. Over the previous month, Yarmouk and its surrounding areas have seen a serious escalation in armed conflict, including frequent, heavy exchanges of fire and the use of heavy weapons, which have persistently disrupted the distribution of life-saving humanitarian aid to the 18,000 civilians trapped in the area.

10 January 2015

"UNRWA was not able to distribute humanitarian assistance in Yarmouk despite entering Yarmouk.

"With permission from Syrian authorities, the UNRWA team arrived at the Bateekhah staging area at 10:50 and entered Yarmouk at 11:30. Clashes and gunfire in the vicinity of the distribution area caused non-life threatening injuries to three Palestine refugees approaching the distribution area, including a young girl. The UNRWA team left the area at 12:40, with no aid distributed. The team departed Bateekhah at 13:05, returning safely to the UNRWA Syria Field Office.

"UNRWA assesses the security situation in Yarmouk daily and requests relevant authorities to facilitate the distribution of humanitarian assistance to the civilian population. Over the previous month, Yarmouk and its surrounding areas have seen a serious escalation in armed conflict, including frequent, heavy exchanges of fire and the use of heavy weapons, which have persistently disrupted the distribution of life-saving humanitarian aid to the 18,000 civilians trapped in the area.

"In 2014, on days when all concerned actors cooperated fully to give priority to the food needs of civilians in Yarmouk, UNRWA has proven capable of distributing up to 1,000 food parcels per day. To stop the suffering of Yarmouk’s civilians, UNRWA calls for this level of cooperation to resume, for the immediate cessation of armed hostilities in and around Yarmouk, and for all concerned parties to act in ways that promote the protection of Yarmouk’s civilians and give the utmost priority to their humanitarian needs. UNRWA assesses the security situation in Yarmouk daily and requests relevant authorities to facilitate the distribution of humanitarian assistance to the civilian population. Over the previous month, Yarmouk and its surrounding areas have seen a serious escalation in armed conflict, including frequent, heavy exchanges of fire and the use of heavy weapons, which have persistently disrupted the distribution of life-saving humanitarian aid to the 18,000 civilians trapped in the area.

9 January 2015

"UNRWA was not able to distribute humanitarian assistance in Yarmouk despite entering Yarmouk.

"With permission from Syrian authorities, an UNRWA team arrived at the Bateekhah staging area at 11:40 and remained there for approximately an hour, awaiting the arrival of civilians at the distribution area inside Yarmouk. During the period, gunfire and the sound of heavy clashes were heard from inside Yarmouk and in the vicinity of the distribution area. It was apparent that armed activities prevented civilians from proceeding safely from their homes inside Yarmouk to the distribution area and that the safety of the distribution team was also at risk. The team departed Bateekhah at 12:45, returning safely to the UNRWA Syria Field Office. Persistent armed violence in Yarmouk has now prevented UNRWA from conducting a successful distribution operation since 6 December, 2014.

"UNRWA assesses the security situation in Yarmouk daily and requests relevant authorities to facilitate the distribution of humanitarian assistance to the civilian population. Over the previous month, Yarmouk and its surrounding areas have seen a serious escalation in armed conflict, including frequent, heavy exchanges of fire and the use of heavy weapons, which have persistently disrupted the distribution of life-saving humanitarian aid to the 18,000 civilians trapped in the area.

8 January 2015

"UNRWA was not able to distribute humanitarian assistance to Yarmouk today partly because of adverse weather conditions.

"UNRWA assesses the security situation in Yarmouk daily and requests relevant authorities to facilitate the distribution of humanitarian assistance to the civilian population. Over the previous month, Yarmouk and its surrounding areas have seen a serious escalation in armed conflict, including frequent, heavy exchanges of fire and the use of heavy weapons, which have persistently disrupted the distribution of life-saving humanitarian aid to the 18,000 civilians trapped in the area.

7 January 2015

"UNRWA was not able to distribute humanitarian assistance to Yarmouk today partly because of adverse weather conditions.

"UNRWA assesses the security situation in Yarmouk daily and requests relevant authorities to facilitate the distribution of humanitarian assistance to the civilian population. Over the previous month, Yarmouk and its surrounding areas have seen a serious escalation in armed conflict, including frequent, heavy exchanges of fire and the use of heavy weapons, which have persistently disrupted the distribution of life-saving humanitarian aid to the 18,000 civilians trapped in the area.

6 January 2015

"UNRWA was not able to distribute humanitarian assistance to Yarmouk today.

"UNRWA assesses the security situation in Yarmouk daily and requests relevant authorities to facilitate the distribution of humanitarian assistance to the civilian population. Over the previous month, Yarmouk and its surrounding areas have seen a serious escalation in armed conflict, including frequent, heavy exchanges of fire and the use of heavy weapons, which have persistently disrupted the distribution of life-saving humanitarian aid to the 18,000 civilians trapped in the area.

31 December 2014 - 5 January 2015

"UNRWA assesses the security situation in Yarmouk daily and requests relevant authorities to facilitate the distribution of humanitarian assistance to the civilian population. Over the previous month, Yarmouk and its surrounding areas have seen a serious escalation in armed conflict, including frequent, heavy exchanges of fire and the use of heavy weapons, which have persistently disrupted the distribution of life-saving humanitarian aid to the 18,000 civilians trapped in the area.

30 December 2014

"UNRWA did not distribute humanitarian assistance in Yarmouk today, 30 December.

"Over the last two weeks, Yarmouk and its surrounding areas have seen a serious escalation in armed conflict, including frequent, heavy exchanges of fire and the use of heavy weapons, which have repeatedly disrupted the distribution of life-saving humanitarian aid to the 18,000 civilians trapped in the area. Approximately 400 food parcels are required each day to meet the minimum food needs of this extremely vulnerable population, and UNRWA remains deeply concerned that fewer than 700 parcels have been distributed over the course of the entire month of December. This underlines the extremely worrying fact that for the civilian population of Yarmouk, food, health care, and other essential, minimum human requirements remain substantially unmet.

"With the facilitation and support of the relevant authorities, UNRWA has proved capable of distributing up to 1,000 food parcels per day this year in response to the humanitarian needs of civilians in Yarmouk. To ease the suffering of Yarmouk’s civilians and improving the wretchedly harsh conditions in which they live, UNRWA appeals for an immediate cessation of armed hostilities inside Yarmouk and for recourse to negotiations to maintain calm inside Yarmouk and its surrounding areas. UNRWA will continue to assess the security situation in Yarmouk, and work towards obtaining safe, uninterrupted and full humanitarian access to Yarmouk and its civilians."

29 December 2014

"UNRWA did not distribute humanitarian assistance in Yarmouk today, 29 December.

28 December 2014

"UNRWA did not distribute humanitarian assistance in Yarmouk today, 28 December.

27 December 2014

"UNRWA distribution could not take place in Yarmouk today 27th December. This was due to extremely insecure conditions inside Yarmouk, in the vicinity of UNRWA’s distribution area, and close to the staging area in Bateekhah square at the northern entrance to Yarmouk.

"Over the last two weeks, Yarmouk and its surrounding areas have seen a serious escalation in armed conflict, including frequent, heavy exchanges of fire and the use of heavy weapons. As armed conflict continued in Yarmouk throughout last night and into this morning, UNRWA’s assessment was that to organize humanitarian distribution under the present circumstances would pose unmanageable risks to the lives and safety of UNRWA staff and other humanitarian personnel supporting the humanitarian distribution, and to Palestine refugees and others who would come forward to receive UNRWA’s assistance.

"UNRWA is extremely concerned by the escalation in the armed conflict in Yarmouk. The Agency condemns any loss of civilian lives caused by the present escalation and deplores the repeated disruption in the distribution of life-saving humanitarian aid to the approximately 18,000 civilians trapped in Yarmouk. To meet the food needs of civilians trapped inside Yarmouk, some 400 families must receive food parcels each day. By contrast, frequent security-related disruptions have meant that since the beginning of December, only 642 families have received UNRWA food parcels. This underscores the extremely worrying fact that for the civilian population of Yarmouk, food, health care, and other essential, minimum human requirements remain substantially unmet."

"For the sake of easing the suffering of Yarmouk’s civilians and improving the wretchedly harsh conditions in which they live, UNRWA appeals for an immediate cessation of armed hostilities inside Yarmouk and for recourse to negotiations to maintain calm inside Yarmouk and its surrounding areas. UNRWA will continue to work towards obtaining safe, uninterrupted and full humanitarian access to Yarmouk and its civilians. The Agency will also continue to assess the situation daily with a view of resuming distributions as soon as possible."

26 December 2014

"UNRWA distribution in Yarmouk could not take place due to ongoing clashes today, 26th December.

"The team arrived at the Bateekhah northern entrance to Yarmouk at 11.30 but could not enter due to ongoing clashes in the vicinity of distribution area. The team evacuated the area shortly after their arrival and arrived back at the Field Office at 12.15.

"It is the second consecutive week that clashes severely impede efforts to meet the minimum humanitarian needs of 18,000 civilians trapped in the area. UNRWA is deeply concerned that frequent recourse to armed violence has prevented critical food, NFI and health needs from being met. UNRWA estimates that approximately 400 food parcels are required every day to meet food needs in Yarmouk. So far, only 642 food parcels have been distributed to the population of Yarmouk since the beginning of December. The Agency renews its appeal to all parties to facilitate uninterrupted, full and safe humanitarian access to the area."

25 December 2014

"UNRWA distribution in Yarmouk was interrupted by clashes today, 25th December. It was the first UNRWA distribution in Yarmouk since 12th December.

"The team arrived at the distribution point at 10.15, and began distribution at 12.40. UNRWA distributed 21 food parcels and 21 family hygiene kits, in addition to providing primary healthcare to 23 civilians. Clashes in the vicinity of the distribution point broke out 20 minutes after the beginning of the distribution and caused an early halt to the operation. The UNRWA team had to evacuate the area at 12.50, returning safely to the UNRWA Field Office.

"It is the second consecutive week that clashes severely impede efforts to meet the minimum humanitarian needs of 18,000 civilians trapped in the area. UNRWA is deeply concerned that recourse to armed violence is preventing legitimate food, NFI and health needs from being met, particularly in light of the onset of winter. UNRWA estimates that approximately 400 food parcels are required every day to meet food needs in Yarmouk. So far, only 642 food parcels have been distributed to the population of Yarmouk since the beginning of December. The Agency renews its appeal to all parties to facilitate uninterrupted, full and safe humanitarian access to the area."

24 December 2014

"UNRWA was not cleared to distribute humanitarian assistance in Yarmouk today, 24 December.

"UNRWA remains deeply concerned that, since July this year, there has been a noticeable decline in the quantity of food and other essential items that the Agency has been able distribute to Yarmouk’s civilians. It is acknowledged that in several instances, the distribution of aid in Yarmouk has been interrupted or proved impossible on account of exchanges of gunfire and insecurity. However, these instances do not fully account for the low number of civilians UNRWA is presently enabled to support inside Yarmouk.

"With the facilitation and support of the relevant authorities, UNRWA has proved capable of distributing up to 1,000 food parcels per day this year in response to the humanitarian needs of civilians in Yarmouk. UNRWA will continue to draw attention to the suffering of refugees trapped in the area and to persist in its demand for full, safe and unrestricted humanitarian access to Yarmouk."

23 December 2014

"UNRWA was not cleared to distribute humanitarian assistance in Yarmouk today, 23 December.

"With the facilitation and support of the relevant authorities, UNRWA has proved capable of distributing up to 1,000 food parcels per day this year in response to the humanitarian needs of civilians in Yarmouk. UNRWA will continue to draw attention to the suffering of refugees trapped in the area and to persist in its demand for full, safe and unrestricted humanitarian access to Yarmouk."

22 December 2014

Our spokesperson Chris Gunness has the following to say on the situation in Yarmouk Camp

"UNRWA was not cleared to distribute humanitarian assistance in Yarmouk today, 22 December.

"With the facilitation and support of the relevant authorities, UNRWA has proved capable of distributing up to 1,000 food parcels per day this year in response to the humanitarian needs of civilians in Yarmouk. UNRWA will continue to draw attention to the suffering of refugees trapped in the area and to persist in its demand for full, safe and unrestricted humanitarian access to Yarmouk."

18 - 21 December 2014

Our spokesperson Chris Gunness has the following to say on the situation in Yarmouk Camp

"UNRWA distribution in Yarmouk was not possible on 18, 19, 20 or 21 December.

"On 18 December the team arrived at the distribution point at 10.20 amidst clashes in the vicinity of the distribution area. The team waited for an opportunity to begin the distribution, but with clashes continuing they were compelled to leave the area, returning safely to the UNRWA Field Office at 12.30.

"On 19 December the team arrived at 10.30, with ongoing clashes in the immediate vicinity of the distribution area. Due to continuing clashes the team evacuated the area shortly thereafter, without being able to distribute any relief items, and arrived back at the Field Office at 12.54.

"On 20 December the team arrived at the distribution point at 10.30, but again was unable to distribute due to clashes. The team returned to the Field Office at 13.00.

"There was no distribution yesterday, 21 December.

"UNRWA was last able to distribute humanitarian relief items on 12 December, when distribution was again cut short by clashes. UNRWA is deeply concerned that such clashes frequently impede efforts to meet the minimum humanitarian needs of 18,000 civilians trapped in the area. Only 600 food parcels have been distributed so far this month. UNRWA estimates that approximately 400 food parcels are required every day to meet ongoing food needs, and the Agency renews its appeal to all parties to facilitate uninterrupted, full and safe humanitarian access to the area."

16 & 17 December 2014

"UNRWA was not cleared to distribute humanitarian assistance in Yarmouk on 16 and 17 December.

"With the facilitation and support of the relevant authorities, UNRWA has proved capable of distributing up to 1,000 food parcels per day this year in response to the humanitarian needs of civilians in Yarmouk. UNRWA will continue to draw attention to the suffering of refugees trapped in the area and to persist in its demand for full, safe and unrestricted humanitarian access to Yarmouk."

15 December 2014

"UNRWA was not cleared to distribute humanitarian assistance in Yarmouk today, 15 December.

"With the facilitation and support of the relevant authorities, UNRWA has proved capable of distributing up to 1,000 food parcels per day this year in response to the humanitarian needs of civilians in Yarmouk. UNRWA will continue to draw attention to the suffering of refugees trapped in the area and to persist in its demand for full, safe and unrestricted humanitarian access to Yarmouk."

14 December 2014

"UNRWA was not cleared to distribute humanitarian assistance in Yarmouk yesterday, 14 December.

"With the facilitation and support of the relevant authorities, UNRWA has proved capable of distributing up to 1,000 food parcels per day this year in response to the humanitarian needs of civilians in Yarmouk. UNRWA will continue to draw attention to the suffering of refugees trapped in the area and to persist in its demand for full, safe and unrestricted humanitarian access to Yarmouk."

13 December 2014

"UNRWA distribution in Yarmouk was not possible again on 13 December.

"The team arrived at the distribution point at 10.35 amidst clashes in the vicinity of the distribution area. The team waited for an opportunity to begin the distribution, but with clashes continuing they were compelled to leave the area, returning safely to the UNRWA Field Office at 13.46.

"Such clashes further impede efforts to meet the minimum humanitarian needs of 18,000 civilians trapped in the area. UNRWA is deeply concerned that recourse to armed violence is preventing legitimate food, NFI and health needs from being met, particularly in light of the onset of winter. UNRWA estimates that approximately 400 food parcels are required every day to meet ongoing food needs, and the Agency renews its appeal to all parties to facilitate uninterrupted and full humanitarian access to the area."

12 December 2014

"UNRWA distribution in Yarmouk was interrupted by clashes again yesterday, 12 December.

"The team arrived at the distribution point at 10.41, and began distribution at 12.15. UNRWA distributed 41 food parcels, 15 family hygiene kits and 30 jerry cans with potable water, in addition to treating the primary health needs of 23 civilians in under half an hour. Clashes in the vicinity of the distribution point caused an early halt to the operation again, and the UNRWA team evacuated the area at 12.40, returning safely to the UNRWA Field Office.

11 December 2014

"UNRWA distribution in Yarmouk was interrupted by clashes yesterday, 11 December.

"The team arrived at the distribution point at 11.20, and began distribution at 11.50. Only one food parcel was distributed before clashes in the immediate vicinity of the distribution point forced an abrupt halt to the mission. It was not possible to distribute other humanitarian items or establish the temporary health point. The UNRWA team evacuated the area at 12.00 and returned safely to the UNRWA Field Office without injury.

"This latest setback further impedes efforts to meet the minimum humanitarian needs of 18,000 civilians trapped in the area. UNRWA is deeply concerned that recourse to armed violence is preventing legitimate food, NFI and health needs from being met, particularly in light of the onset of winter. UNRWA notes that since mid-September there has been a noticeable decline in the quantity of relief items reaching this community, and the Agency renews its appeal to all parties to facilitate uninterrupted and full humanitarian access to the area."

10 December 2014

"UNRWA was not cleared to distribute humanitarian assistance in Yarmouk today, 10 December.

"With the facilitation and support of the relevant authorities, UNRWA has proved capable of distributing up to 1,000 food parcels per day this year in response to the humanitarian needs of civilians in Yarmouk. UNRWA will continue to draw attention to the suffering of refugees trapped in the area and to persist in its demand for full, safe and unrestricted humanitarian access to Yarmouk."

9 December 2014

"UNRWA was not cleared to distribute humanitarian assistance in Yarmouk today, 9 December.

"With the facilitation and support of the relevant authorities, UNRWA has proved capable of distributing up to 1,000 food parcels per day this year in response to the humanitarian needs of civilians in Yarmouk. UNRWA will continue to draw attention to the suffering of refugees trapped in the area and to persist in its demand for full, safe and unrestricted humanitarian access to Yarmouk."

8 December 2014

"UNRWA was not cleared to distribute humanitarian assistance in Yarmouk today, 8 December.

"With the facilitation and support of the relevant authorities, UNRWA has proved capable of distributing up to 1,000 food parcels per day this year in response to the humanitarian needs of civilians in Yarmouk. UNRWA will continue to draw attention to the suffering of refugees trapped in the area and to persist in its demand for full, safe and unrestricted humanitarian access to Yarmouk."

4, 5, 6 & 7 December 2014

"UNRWA was not cleared to distribute humanitarian assistance in Yarmouk today, 7 December.

"On 4 December UNRWA distributed 200 food parcels, 200 hygiene kits and 120 jerry cans filled with potable water. The health team also provided medical treatment to 78 civilians. The UNRWA team entered the area at 11:15, starting distribution at 12:35 and ending at 15:30. The team arrived back at the Field Office at 16:02.

"On 5 December UNRWA distributed a further 200 food parcels, 199 hygiene kits and 199 jerry cans of water. The UNRWA health team provided primary health services to 74 civilians. The UNRWA team arrived at the distribution point at 10:30, starting operations at 12:00. The team departed at 15:15.

"On 6 December UNRWA distributed 200 food parcels, 200 hygiene kits and 200 jerry cans. UNRWA’s health team also provided medical treatment to 82 cases and transmitted 4,000 polio vaccines to the Palestinian Red Crescent Society (PRCS) for distribution through the Palestine Hospital. The team arrived at the distribution point at 10:40, beginning distribution at 12:35 and departing the area by 15:20.

"UNRWA welcomes the opportunity to distribute vital humanitarian relief to some of Yarmouk’s 18,000 trapped civilians, but nevertheless remains concerned that since mid-September there has been a noticeable decline in the quantity of relief items reaching this community. UNRWA is particularly concerned due to the onset of winter amidst continuing food, health, education and NFI needs.

"Each food parcel contains sufficient food to last a family of four for approximately ten days. With a trapped population of over 18,000 (approximately 4,000 families), the equivalent of 400 parcels a day – every day – are therefore required to ensure these needs are met. With the facilitation and support of the relevant authorities, UNRWA has proved capable of distributing up to 1,000 food parcels per day this year in response to the humanitarian needs of civilians in Yarmouk.

"It is acknowledged that in several instances, the distribution of aid in Yarmouk has been interrupted or proved impossible on account of exchanges of gunfire and insecurity. However, these instances do not fully account for the low number of civilians UNRWA is presently enabled to support inside Yarmouk.

"UNRWA will continue to draw attention to the suffering of refugees trapped there, and to persist in its demand for full, safe and sustained humanitarian access to Yarmouk.

2 & 3 December 2014

"UNRWA was not cleared to distribute humanitarian assistance in Yarmouk on 2 December and today, 3 December.

"With the facilitation and support of the relevant authorities, UNRWA has proved capable of distributing up to 1,000 food parcels per day this year in response to the humanitarian needs of civilians in Yarmouk. UNRWA will continue to draw attention to the suffering of refugees trapped in the area and to persist in its demand for full, safe and unrestricted humanitarian access to Yarmouk."

1 December 2014

"UNRWA was not cleared to distribute humanitarian assistance in Yarmouk today, 1 December.

"With the facilitation and support of the relevant authorities, UNRWA has proved capable of distributing up to 1,000 food parcels per day this year in response to the humanitarian needs of civilians in Yarmouk. UNRWA will continue to draw attention to the suffering of refugees trapped in the area and to persist in its demand for full, safe and unrestricted humanitarian access to Yarmouk."

30 November 2014

"UNRWA was not cleared to distribute humanitarian assistance in Yarmouk today, 30 November.

"With the facilitation and support of the relevant authorities, UNRWA has proved capable of distributing up to 1,000 food parcels per day this year in response to the humanitarian needs of civilians in Yarmouk. UNRWA will continue to draw attention to the suffering of refugees trapped in the area and to persist in its demand for full, safe and unrestricted humanitarian access to Yarmouk."

27, 28 & 29 November 2014

"UNRWA was cleared to distribute humanitarian assistance in Yarmouk on 27, 28 and 29 November.

"On 27 November UNRWA only distributed 100 food parcels with the facilitation of the relevant authorities. UNRWA also provided primary health services to 110 cases over the course of the mission. The team arrived at the distribution point at 11:10, commencing distribution at 12:40 and finishing at 13:45.

"On 28 November UNRWA took advantage of a longer distribution period, and distributed a total of 200 food parcels and 200 hygiene kits with the facilitation of the relevant authorities. UNRWA also provided primary health services to 78 cases over the course of the day. The team arrived at the distribution point at 10:55, commencing distribution at 12:10 and finishing at 15:00.

"On 29 November UNRWA distributed a total of 100 food parcels and 100 hygiene kits with the facilitation of the relevant authorities. UNRWA also provided primary health services to 72 cases over the course of the day. The team arrived at the distribution point at 10:10, commencing distribution at 11:55 and finishing at 13:40.

"UNRWA will continue to draw attention to the suffering of refugees trapped there, and to persist in its demand for full, safe and sustained humanitarian access to Yarmouk."

26 November 2014

"UNRWA was not cleared to distribute humanitarian assistance in Yarmouk today, 26 November.

"With the facilitation and support of the relevant authorities, UNRWA has proved capable of distributing up to 1,000 food parcels per day this year in response to the humanitarian needs of civilians in Yarmouk. UNRWA will continue to draw attention to the suffering of refugees trapped in the area and to persist in its demand for full, safe and unrestricted humanitarian access to Yarmouk."

25 November 2014

"UNRWA was not cleared to distribute humanitarian assistance in Yarmouk today, 25 November.

"With the facilitation and support of the relevant authorities, UNRWA has proved capable of distributing up to 1,000 food parcels per day this year in response to the humanitarian needs of civilians in Yarmouk. UNRWA will continue to draw attention to the suffering of refugees trapped in the area and to persist in its demand for full, safe and unrestricted humanitarian access to Yarmouk."

24 November 2014

"UNRWA was not cleared to distribute humanitarian assistance in Yarmouk today, 24 November.

"With the facilitation and support of the relevant authorities, UNRWA has proved capable of distributing up to 1,000 food parcels per day this year in response to the humanitarian needs of civilians in Yarmouk. UNRWA will continue to draw attention to the suffering of refugees trapped in the area and to persist in its demand for full, safe and unrestricted humanitarian access to Yarmouk."

23 November 2014

"UNRWA was not cleared to distribute humanitarian assistance in Yarmouk today, 23 November.

"With the facilitation and support of the relevant authorities, UNRWA has proved capable of distributing up to 1,000 food parcels per day this year in response to the humanitarian needs of civilians in Yarmouk. UNRWA will continue to draw attention to the suffering of refugees trapped in the area and to persist in its demand for full, safe and unrestricted humanitarian access to Yarmouk."

22 November 2014

"UNRWA was cleared to distribute humanitarian assistance in Yarmouk on 22 November, for the third time this week. UNRWA distributed a total of 200 food parcels, 200 hygiene kits, 200 water jerrycans and provided primary health services to 78 civilians over the course of the day. The team arrived at the distribution point at 10:00, commencing distribution at 11:30 and finishing at 15:00.

"UNRWA welcomes the opportunity to distribute vital humanitarian relief to some of Yarmouk’s 18,000 trapped civilians but remains concerned that for the past four months there has been a noticeable decline in the quantity of relief items reaching this community. It is acknowledged that in several instances, the distribution of aid in Yarmouk has been interrupted or proved impossible on account of exchanges of gunfire and insecurity. However, these instances do not account for the low number of civilians UNRWA is presently permitted to support inside Yarmouk.

"With the facilitation and support of the relevant authorities, UNRWA has proved capable of distributing up to 1,000 food parcels per day in response to the humanitarian needs of civilians in Yarmouk. UNRWA will continue to draw attention to the suffering of refugees trapped in the area and to persist in its demand for full, safe and sustained humanitarian access to Yarmouk."

21 November 2014

"UNRWA was cleared to distribute humanitarian assistance in Yarmouk on 21 November, for the second time this week. UNRWA distributed a total of 200 food parcels, 200 hygiene kits and provided primary health services to 64 civilians over the course of the day. The team arrived at the distribution point at 11:30, commencing distribution at 12:30 and finishing at 14:50.

20 November 2014

"UNRWA was cleared to distribute humanitarian assistance in Yarmouk today, 20 November, for the first time this week. UNRWA distributed a total of 200 food parcels, 200 hygiene kits and provided primary health services to 54 civilians over the course of the day. The team arrived at the distribution point at 10:45, commencing distribution at 12:25 and finishing at 14:35.

19 November 2014

"UNRWA was not cleared to distribute humanitarian assistance in Yarmouk today, 19 November.

"With the facilitation and support of the relevant authorities, UNRWA has proved capable of distributing up to 1,000 food parcels per day this year in response to the humanitarian needs of civilians in Yarmouk. UNRWA will continue to draw attention to the suffering of refugees trapped in the area and to persist in its demand for full, safe and unrestricted humanitarian access to Yarmouk."

18 November 2014

"UNRWA was not cleared to distribute humanitarian assistance in Yarmouk today, 18 November.

"With the facilitation and support of the relevant authorities, UNRWA has proved capable of distributing up to 1,000 food parcels per day this year in response to the humanitarian needs of civilians in Yarmouk. UNRWA will continue to draw attention to the suffering of refugees trapped in the area and to persist in its demand for full, safe and unrestricted humanitarian access to Yarmouk."

17 November 2014

"UNRWA was not cleared to distribute humanitarian assistance in Yarmouk today, 17 November.

"UNRWA remains very concerned that since July this year, there has been a noticeable decline in the quantity of food and other essential items that the Agency has been able to offer to Yarmouk’s civilians. It is acknowledged that in several instances, the distribution of aid in Yarmouk has been interrupted or proved impossible on account of exchanges of gunfire and insecurity. However, these instances do not fully account for the low number of civilians UNRWA is presently enabled to support inside Yarmouk.

"UNRWA will continue to draw attention to the suffering of refugees trapped there, and to persist in its demand for full, safe and sustained humanitarian access to Yarmouk."

16 November 2014

"UNRWA was not cleared to distribute humanitarian assistance in Yarmouk today, 16 November.

"UNRWA will continue to draw attention to the suffering of refugees trapped there, and to persist in its demand for full, safe and sustained humanitarian access to Yarmouk."

15 November 2014

"UNRWA was cleared to distribute humanitarian assistance in Yarmouk today, 15 November, for the third time this week. UNRWA distributed a total of 200 food parcels, 200 hygiene kits and 200 jerry cans containing potable water with the facilitation of the relevant authorities. UNRWA also provided primary health services to 124 refugees over the course of the day. The team arrived at the distribution point at 10:25, commencing distribution at 12:45 and finishing at 16:20.

"UNRWA welcomes the opportunity to distribute vital humanitarian relief to some of Yarmouk’s 18,000 trapped civilians, but nevertheless remains concerned that for the past four months there has been a noticeable decline in the quantity of relief items reaching this community. It is acknowledged that in several instances, the distribution of aid in Yarmouk has been interrupted or proved impossible on account of exchanges of gunfire and insecurity. However, these instances do not fully account for the low number of civilians UNRWA is presently enabled to support inside Yarmouk.

"UNRWA will continue to draw attention to the suffering of refugees trapped there, and to persist in its demand for full, safe and sustained humanitarian access to Yarmouk."

14 November 2014

"UNRWA was cleared to distribute humanitarian assistance in Yarmouk yesterday, 14 November, for the second time this week. UNRWA distributed a total of 200 food parcels, 200 hygiene kits and 200 jerry cans containing potable water with the facilitation of the relevant authorities. UNRWA also provided primary health services to 150 cases over the course of the day. The team arrived at the distribution point at 10:10, commencing distribution at 11:45 and finishing at 15:20.

"UNRWA will continue to draw attention to the suffering of refugees trapped there, and to persist in its demand for full, safe and sustained humanitarian access to Yarmouk."

13 November 2014

"UNRWA was cleared to distribute humanitarian assistance in Yarmouk on 13 November, for the first time this week. UNRWA distributed a total of 200 food parcels, 200 hygiene kits and 100 jerry cans containing potable water with the facilitation of the relevant authorities. UNRWA resumed services from its temporary health point, which treated 170 cases over the course of the day. The health point was last operational on 1 November. The team arrived at the distribution point at 11:00, commencing distribution at 12:10 and finishing at 15:15.

"UNRWA welcomes this resumption of distributions after a break of four days, but nevertheless remains concerned that since July this year, there has been a noticeable decline in the quantity of food and other essential items that the Agency has been able to offer to Yarmouk’s civilians. It is acknowledged that in several instances, the distribution of aid in Yarmouk has been interrupted or proved impossible on account of exchanges of gunfire and insecurity. However, these instances do not fully account for the low number of civilians UNRWA is presently enabled to support inside Yarmouk.

"UNRWA will continue to draw attention to the suffering of refugees trapped there, and to persist in its demand for full, safe and sustained humanitarian access to Yarmouk."

12 November 2014

"UNRWA was not cleared to distribute humanitarian assistance in Yarmouk again today, 12 November.

"UNRWA will continue to draw attention to the suffering of refugees trapped there, and to persist in its demand for full, safe and sustained humanitarian access to Yarmouk."

11 November 2014

Our spokesperson Chris Gunness has the following to say on the situation in Yarmouk Camp

"UNRWA was not cleared to distribute humanitarian assistance in Yarmouk today, 11 November.

"UNRWA will continue to draw attention to the suffering of refugees trapped there, and to persist in its demand for full, safe and sustained humanitarian access to Yarmouk."

10 November 2014

Our spokesperson Chris Gunness has the following to say on the situation in Yarmouk Camp

"UNRWA was not cleared to distribute humanitarian assistance in Yarmouk today, 10 November.

"UNRWA will continue to draw attention to the suffering of refugees trapped there, and to persist in its demand for full, safe and sustained humanitarian access to Yarmouk."

9 November 2014

Our spokesperson Chris Gunness has the following to say on the situation in Yarmouk Camp

"UNRWA was not cleared to distribute humanitarian assistance in Yarmouk today, 9 November.

"UNRWA will continue to draw attention to the suffering of refugees trapped there, and to persist in its demand for full, safe and sustained humanitarian access to Yarmouk."

8 November 2014

"UNRWA was cleared to distribute humanitarian assistance in Yarmouk today, 8 November, for the third time this week. UNRWA distributed a total of 200 food parcels and 200 jerry cans of drinking water, but was again not permitted to distribute hygiene kits or operate its temporary health point. The team arrived at the distribution point at 10:25, commencing distribution at 12:05 and finishing at 14:00.

"The opportunity provided by the authorities to distribute clean water inside Yarmouk is much welcomed by UNRWA, particularly in light of the damage to the mains water supply in September. UNRWA continues to highlight the need for full, safe and sustained humanitarian access to Yarmouk, including the continued provision of basic food, water, non-food items and health services to more than 18,000 refugees trapped in the area."

7 November 2014

"UNRWA was cleared to distribute humanitarian assistance in Yarmouk yesterday, 7 November, for the second time this week. UNRWA distributed a total of 200 food parcels and 200 jerry cans of drinking water, but was not permitted to distribute hygiene kits or operate its temporary health point. The team arrived at the distribution point at 10:30, commencing distribution at 11:50 and finishing at 14:30.

"The opportunity provided by the authorities to distribute clean water inside Yarmouk for the first time is much welcomed by UNRWA, particularly in light of the damage to the mains water supply in September.

"UNRWA continues to highlight the need for full, safe and sustained humanitarian access to Yarmouk, including the continued provision of basic food, water, non-food items and health services to more than 18,000 refugees trapped in the area."

6 November 2014

"UNRWA was cleared to distribute humanitarian assistance in Yarmouk yesterday, 6 November, for the first time this week. UNRWA distributed a total of 200 food parcels with the facilitation of the relevant authorities, but was not permitted to distribute hygiene kits or operate its temporary health point. The team arrived at the distribution point at 10:10, commencing distribution at 12:05 and finishing at 15:00.

"This latest set back comes at a time when the Agency would expect to start treating more winter-related health needs, in addition to the existing challenges faced by more than 18,000 refugees trapped in the area.

"UNRWA will continue to draw attention to the suffering of refugees trapped there, and to persist in its demand for full, safe and sustained humanitarian access to Yarmouk."

5 November 2014

"UNRWA was not cleared to distribute humanitarian assistance in Yarmouk again today, 5 November.

"UNRWA will continue to draw attention to the suffering of refugees trapped there, and to persist in its demand for full, safe and sustained humanitarian access to Yarmouk."

4 November 2014

"UNRWA was not cleared to distribute humanitarian assistance in Yarmouk today, 4 November.

"UNRWA will continue to draw attention to the suffering of refugees trapped there, and to persist in its demand for full, safe and sustained humanitarian access to Yarmouk."

3 November 2014

"UNRWA was not cleared to distribute humanitarian assistance in Yarmouk today, 3 November.

"UNRWA will continue to draw attention to the suffering of refugees trapped there, and to persist in its demand for full, safe and sustained humanitarian access to Yarmouk."

2 November 2014

"UNRWA was not cleared to distribute humanitarian assistance in Yarmouk today, 2 November, following three days of distribution.

"UNRWA will continue to draw attention to the suffering of refugees trapped there, and to persist in its demand for full, safe and sustained humanitarian access to Yarmouk."

1 november 2014

Our spokesperson Chris Gunness has the following to say on the situation in Yarmouk Camp

"UNRWA distributed 200 food parcels, including additional quantities of bread, and 200 hygiene kits to civilians in Yarmouk today, 1 November. The Agency also provided primary health services to 181 civilian patients from Yarmouk. The UNRWA team arrived at the distribution point at 10:35, with distributions commencing at 12:00. All activities came to a close at 14:00 and the team departed the area without disruption.

"Each food parcel contains enough items to feed a family of four for approximately ten days, and UNRWA estimates there are currently over 18,000 civilians in Yarmouk. Permission to distribute urgent humanitarian relief items for the third time this week was welcome, but today’s distribution nevertheless addresses a small portion of the humanitarian needs in the area.

"UNRWA will continue to draw attention to the suffering of refugees trapped there, and to persist in its demand for full, safe and sustained humanitarian access to Yarmouk."

31 October 2014

Our spokesperson Chris Gunness has the following to say on the situation in Yarmouk Camp

"UNRWA distributed 200 food parcels and 200 hygiene kits to civilians in Yarmouk today, 31 October. The Agency also provided primary health services to 198 civilian patients from Yarmouk. The UNRWA team arrived at the distribution point at 09:50, with distributions commencing at 11:35. All activities came to a close at 13:55 and the team departed the area safely.

"Permission to distribute urgent humanitarian relief items for the second time this week was welcome, though the number of civilian families who received assistance today is again tiny in comparison to the civilian population in dire need, numbering over 18,000.

"With the facilitation and support of the relevant authorities, UNRWA has proved capable of distributing up to 1,000 food parcels per day to respond to the humanitarian needs of civilians in Yarmouk. UNRWA will continue to draw attention to the suffering of Yarmouk’s civilians, and will persist in its demand for full, safe and sustained humanitarian access to Yarmouk."

30 October 2014

Our spokesperson Chris Gunness has the following to say on the situation in Yarmouk Camp

"UNRWA distributed 200 food parcels and 200 hygiene kits to civilians in Yarmouk today, 30 October. The Agency also provided primary health services to 195 civilian patients from Yarmouk. The UNRWA team arrived at the distribution point at 10:00, with distributions commencing at 12:55. All activities came to a close at 15:55 and the team departed the area safely.

"Permission to distribute urgent humanitarian relief items for the first time this week was welcome, though the number of civilian families who received assistance today is again tiny in comparison to the civilian population in dire need, numbering over 18,000.

"With the facilitation and support of the relevant authorities, UNRWA has proved capable of distributing up to 1,000 food parcels per day to respond to the humanitarian needs of civilians in Yarmouk. UNRWA will continue to draw attention to the suffering of Yarmouk’s civilians, and will persist in its demand for full, safe and sustained humanitarian access to Yarmouk."

29 October 2014

Our spokesperson Chris Gunness has the following to say on the situation in Yarmouk Camp

"UNRWA was not cleared to distribute humanitarian assistance in Yarmouk today, 29 October.

"UNRWA remains very concerned that since July this year, there has been a steady and significant decline in the quantity of food and other essential items that the Agency has been able to offer to Yarmouk’s civilians. It is acknowledged that in several instances, the distribution of aid in Yarmouk has been interrupted or proved impossible on account of exchanges of gunfire and insecurity. However, these instances do not fully account for the low number of civilians UNRWA is presently enabled to support inside Yarmouk.

"UNRWA will continue drawing attention to the suffering of Yarmouk’s civilians, and will persist in its demand for full, safe and sustained humanitarian access to Yarmouk."

28 October 2014

Our spokesperson Chris Gunness has the following to say on the situation in Yarmouk Camp

"UNRWA was not cleared to distribute humanitarian assistance in Yarmouk today, 28 October.

"UNRWA will continue drawing attention to the suffering of Yarmouk’s civilians, and will persist in its demand for full, safe and sustained humanitarian access to Yarmouk."

27 October 2014

"UNRWA was not cleared to distribute humanitarian assistance in Yarmouk today, 27 October.

"UNRWA will continue drawing attention to the suffering of Yarmouk’s civilians, and will persist in its demand for full, safe and sustained humanitarian access to Yarmouk."

26 October 2014

"UNRWA was not cleared to distribute humanitarian assistance in Yarmouk today, 26 October.

"UNRWA will continue drawing attention to the suffering of Yarmouk’s civilians, and will persist in its demand for full, safe and sustained humanitarian access to Yarmouk."

25 October 2014

"UNRWA distributed 200 food parcels and 200 hygiene kits to civilians in Yarmouk on 25 October. The Agency also provided primary health services to 204 civilian patients from Yarmouk. The UNRWA team arrived at the distribution point at 11:15, with distributions commencing at 11:45. All activities came to a close at 14:20 and the team departed the area safely.

"With the facilitation and support of the relevant authorities, UNRWA has proved capable of distributing up to 1,000 food parcels per day to respond to the humanitarian needs of civilians in Yarmouk. Since the middle of September, a pattern has emerged of permission being granted for capped UNRWA distributions on no more than three days per week. This trend sharply limits the amount of food and other humanitarian assistance UNRWA can offer to Yarmouk's beleaguered civilians. The Agency remains concerned that the current arrangements do not meet the needs of civilians in Yarmouk, and is vigorously taking this up with concerned authorities.

"UNRWA will continue drawing attention to the suffering of Yarmouk’s civilians, and will persist in its demand for full, safe and sustained humanitarian access to Yarmouk."

24 October 2014

"UNRWA distributed 200 food parcels and 194 hygiene kits to civilians in Yarmouk today, 24 October. The Agency also provided primary health services to 198 civilian patients from Yarmouk. The UNRWA team arrived at the distribution point at 10:30, with distributions commencing at 11:30. All activities came to a close at 14:30 and the team departed the area safely.

"With the facilitation and support of the relevant authorities, UNRWA has proved capable of distributing up to 1,000 food parcels per day to respond to the humanitarian needs of civilians in Yarmouk. Since the middle of September, a pattern has emerged of permission being granted for capped UNRWA distributions on no more than three days per week. This trend sharply limits the amount of food and other humanitarian assistance UNRWA can offer to Yarmouk's beleaguered civilians. The Agency remains concerned that the current arrangements do not meet the needs of civilians in Yarmouk, and is vigorously taking this up with concerned authorities.

"UNRWA will continue drawing attention to the suffering of Yarmouk’s civilians, and will persist in its demand for full, safe and sustained humanitarian access to Yarmouk."

23 October 2014

"UNRWA distributed 200 food parcels and 200 hygiene kits to civilians in Yarmouk today, 23 October. The Agency also provided primary health services to 190 civilian patients from Yarmouk. The UNRWA team arrived at the distribution point at 09:45, with distributions commencing at 12:00. All activities came to a close at 14:10 and the team departed the area safely.

"With the facilitation and support of the relevant authorities, UNRWA has proved capable of distributing up to 1,000 food parcels per day to respond to the humanitarian needs of civilians in Yarmouk. Since the middle of September, a pattern has emerged of permission being granted for capped UNRWA distributions on no more than three days per week. This trend sharply limits the amount of food and other humanitarian assistance UNRWA can offer to Yarmouk's beleaguered civilians. The Agency remains concerned that the current arrangements do not meet the needs of civilians in Yarmouk, and is vigorously taking this up with concerned authorities.

"UNRWA will continue drawing attention to the suffering of Yarmouk’s civilians, and will persist in its demand for full, safe and sustained humanitarian access to Yarmouk."

22 October 2014

"UNRWA was not cleared to distribute humanitarian assistance in Yarmouk today, 22 October.

"UNRWA will continue drawing attention to the suffering of Yarmouk’s civilians, and will persist in its demand for full, safe and sustained humanitarian access to Yarmouk."

21 October 2014

"UNRWA was not cleared to distribute humanitarian assistance in Yarmouk today, 21 October.

"UNRWA will continue drawing attention to the suffering of Yarmouk’s civilians, and will persist in its demand for full, safe and sustained humanitarian access to Yarmouk."

20 October 2014

"UNRWA was not cleared to distribute humanitarian assistance in Yarmouk today, 20 October.

"UNRWA will continue drawing attention to the suffering of Yarmouk’s civilians, and will persist in its demand for full, safe and sustained humanitarian access to Yarmouk."

19 October 2014

"UNRWA was not cleared to distribute humanitarian assistance in Yarmouk today, 19 October.

"UNRWA will continue drawing attention to the suffering of Yarmouk’s civilians, and will persist in its demand for full, safe and sustained humanitarian access to Yarmouk."

18 October 2014

"UNRWA distributed 200 food parcels and 200 hygiene kits to civilians in Yarmouk today, 18 October. The Agency also provided primary health services to 171 civilian patients from Yarmouk. The UNRWA team arrived at the distribution point at 09:50, with distributions commencing at 11:55. All activities came to a close at 14:10 and the team departed the area safely.

"Permission to distribute hygiene kits was welcome, though the number of civilian families who received assistance today is again tiny in comparison to the civilian population in dire need, numbering over 18,000. UNRWA remains very concerned that since July this year, there has been a steady and significant decline in the quantity of food and other essential items that the Agency has been able to offer to Yarmouk’s civilians.

"UNRWA will continue drawing attention to the suffering of Yarmouk’s civilians, and will persist in its demand for full, safe and sustained humanitarian access to Yarmouk."

17 October 2014

"UNRWA distributed 200 food parcels and 200 hygiene kits to civilians in Yarmouk today, 17 October. The Agency also provided primary health services to 141 civilian patients from Yarmouk. The UNRWA team arrived at the distribution point at 10:30, with distributions commencing at 12:30. All activities came to a close at 14:20 and the team departed the area safely.

"UNRWA will continue drawing attention to the suffering of Yarmouk’s civilians, and will persist in its demand for full, safe and sustained humanitarian access to Yarmouk."

16 October 2014

"UNRWA distributed 200 food parcels and 200 hygiene kits to civilians in Yarmouk today, 16 October. The Agency also provided primary health services to 180 civilian patients from Yarmouk and completed the delivery of textbooks for Grades 5 to 9. The UNRWA team arrived at the distribution point at 12:05, with distributions commencing at 12:40. All activities came to a close at 16:00 and the team departed the area safely.

"Permission to distribute hygiene kits was welcome, though the number of civilian families who received assistance today is tiny in comparison to the civilian population in dire need, numbering over 18,000. UNRWA remains very concerned that since July this year, there has been a steady and significant decline in the quantity of food and other essential items that the Agency has been able to offer to Yarmouk’s civilians.

"UNRWA is vigorously taking this up with concerned authorities and urging a restoration of the levels of daily authorization, facilitation and support that made it possible for UNRWA to reach over 1,000 civilian families inside Yarmouk on some distribution days earlier this year. UNRWA is also maintaining its efforts with the concerned authorities to restore the supply of clean, pipe-borne water inside Yarmouk.

"UNRWA will continue drawing attention to the suffering of Yarmouk’s civilians, and will persist in its demand for full, safe and sustained humanitarian access to Yarmouk."

15 October 2014

"There was no UNRWA distribution of humanitarian assistance in Yarmouk today, 15 October.

"UNRWA highlights with serious concern the fact that since the end of July this year, there has been a significant decline in the quantity of food and other essential items that the Agency has been able to offer to Yarmouk’s civilians. Only very limited health services have been available to this isolated civilian population. It is acknowledged that in several instances, the distribution of aid in Yarmouk has been interrupted or proved impossible on account of exchanges of gunfire and insecurity. However, these instances do not fully account for the low number of civilians UNRWA is presently enabled to support inside Yarmouk.

"To address the grave humanitarian suffering inside Yarmouk, UNRWA is persisting with its demand to all sides for full, safe and sustained humanitarian access to Yarmouk’s civilians."

14 October 2014

"There was no UNRWA distribution of humanitarian assistance in Yarmouk today, 14 October.

"To address the grave humanitarian suffering inside Yarmouk, UNRWA is persisting with its demand to all sides for full, safe and sustained humanitarian access to Yarmouk’s civilians. "

13 October 2014

"UNRWA was not able to distribute humanitarian assistance in Yarmouk today, 13 October.

"UNRWA remains deeply concerned by the rapid decline in the humanitarian situation in Yarmouk over the previous weeks. Yarmouk has been without mains water supply since early September, forcing residents to rely on groundwater and a single well. UNRWA is following up on the water situation with the relevant authorities.

"Currently, UNRWA is permitted to distribute humanitarian assistance on only three days each week, meaning both food insecurity and lack of access to essential healthcare are also worsening. UNRWA demands immediate and sustained humanitarian access to address these issues, particularly in regard to restoration of the mains water supply.

12 October 2014

"UNRWA was not able to distribute humanitarian assistance in Yarmouk today, 12 October.

"Following further tests by its health team UNRWA reports that two cases presenting symptoms of typhoid on 9 October have been confirmed as severe cases of diarrhea. UNRWA and the Palestinian Red Crescent Society (PRCS) have therefore recorded no new cases of typhoid in October.

11 October 2014

"UNRWA distributed food parcels to 49 families, hygiene kits to 50 families and provided health services to 65 patients in Yarmouk today, 11 October. There are approximately 1,500 students in Yarmouk, and the UNRWA team also distributed text books and stationery for Grades 1-4, with plans to complete the distribution for Grades 5-9 tomorrow. The team started distribution at 12:50. Distribution was interrupted due to insecurity (shelling and sniper fire) in the immediate vicinity, and activities were brought to a close early at 14:40.

"UNRWA remains deeply concerned by the rapid decline in the humanitarian situation in Yarmouk over the previous weeks. Yarmouk has been without mains water supply since early September, forcing residents to rely on groundwater and a single well. These water sources are unsafe and lack sufficient capacity to serve the 18,000 civilians trapped in the area.

"UNRWA is liaising with the relevant authorities to address this issue but, to date, has not received permission to either distribute water or repair the water main serving Yarmouk. Currently, UNRWA is permitted to distribute humanitarian assistance on only three days each week, meaning both food insecurity and lack of access to essential healthcare are also worsening. UNRWA demands immediate and sustained humanitarian access to address these issues, particularly in regard to restoration of the mains water supply."

10 October 2014

"UNRWA distributed food parcels to 96 families, hygiene kits to 85 families and provided health services to 64 patients in Yarmouk today, 10 October. The UNRWA team arrived at the distribution point at 10:00 this morning, with distribution of food parcels beginning at 10:30. Distribution was interrupted on several occasions due to insecurity (sniper fire) in the immediate vicinity. Activities were brought to a close early as a result, with the team departing at 13:45.

"The UNRWA health team continues to investigate the two cases of suspected typhoid presenting yesterday, 9 October, with no further cases identified today.

"UNRWA remains deeply concerned by the rapid decline in the humanitarian situation in Yarmouk over the previous weeks. Yarmouk has been without mains water supply since early September, forcing residents to rely on groundwater and a single well. These water sources are unsafe and lack sufficient capacity to serve the 18,000 civilians trapped in the area.

9 October 2014

"UNRWA distributed food parcels to 135 families and provided health services to 135 patients in Yarmouk today, 9 October. The UNRWA team arrived at the distribution point at 10:30 this morning, with distribution of food parcels beginning at 13:20. At 16:00 distribution and health services were brought to a close when the authorities signalled an end to activities.

"The UNRWA health team identified two individuals exhibiting symptoms of what appeared to be typhoid. Further tests and investigation will be conducted tomorrow to verify their medical status. A further 16 people were found to be suffering from diarrhea, including ten children under the age of five. 25 people suffering from cases of high blood pressure and diabetes were also seen.

"UNRWA remains deeply concerned by the rapid decline in the humanitarian situation in Yarmouk over the previous weeks. Yarmouk has been without mains water supply since early September, forcing residents to rely on groundwater and a single well. These water sources are unsafe and lack sufficient capacity to serve the 18,000 civilians trapped in the area.

"UNRWA is liaising with the relevant authorities to address this issue but, to date, has not received permission to either distribute water or repair the water main serving Yarmouk. Currently, UNRWA has been permitted to distribute humanitarian assistance on only three days each week. This indicates that heightened risks of food insecurity and a sharp decline in access to essential healthcare. UNRWA demands immediate and sustained humanitarian access to address these issues, including in regard to restoration of the mains water supply."

8 October 2014

"UNRWA was not permitted to distribute in Yarmouk today, 8 October.

"UNRWA remains deeply concerned by the rapid decline in the humanitarian situation in Yarmouk over the previous weeks. Yarmouk has been without mains water supply since early September, forcing residents to rely on groundwater and a single well. These water sources are unsafe and lack sufficient capacity to serve the 18,000 civilians trapped in the area.

7 October 2014

"UNRWA was not permitted to distribute in Yarmouk today, 7 October.

"UNRWA remains deeply concerned by the rapid decline in the humanitarian situation in Yarmouk over the previous weeks. Yarmouk has been without mains water supply since early September, forcing residents to rely on groundwater and a single well. These water sources are unsafe and lack sufficient capacity to serve the 18,000 civilians trapped in the area.

5 October 2014

"UNRWA was not permitted to distribute in Yarmouk today, 5 October.

"UNRWA remains deeply concerned by the rapid decline in the humanitarian situation in Yarmouk over the previous weeks. Yarmouk has been without mains water supply since early September, forcing residents to rely on groundwater and a single well. These water sources are unsafe and lack sufficient capacity to serve the 18,000 civilians trapped in the area.

3 October 2014

"UNRWA was not permitted to distribute in Yarmouk today, 3 October.

"UNRWA remains deeply concerned by the rapid decline in the humanitarian situation in Yarmouk over the previous weeks. Yarmouk has been without mains water supply since early September, forcing residents to rely on groundwater and a single well. These water sources are unsafe and lack sufficient capacity to serve the 18,000 civilians trapped in the area.

1 October 2014

"UNRWA distributed 150 food parcels and provided health assistance in Yarmouk today, 1 October. The UNRWA distribution team arrived at the Bateekhah northern entrance at 10:50 and began distribution inside Yarmouk at 13:10. Operations continued until 15:30, when the authorities signaled an end to the process.

"Despite today’s distribution, UNRWA is deeply concerned by the rapid decline in the humanitarian situation in Yarmouk over the previous weeks. Yarmouk has been without mains water supply for more than 20 days, forcing residents to rely on groundwater and a single borehole. These water sources are unsafe and lack sufficient capacity to serve the 18,000 civilians trapped in the area.

"UNRWA is working with the relevant authorities to address this issue but, to date, has not received permission to either distribute water or repair the water main serving Yarmouk. Currently, UNRWA is permitted to distribute humanitarian assistance on only three days each week, meaning both food insecurity and lack of access to essential healthcare are also worsening. UNRWA demands immediate and sustained humanitarian access to address these issues, particularly in regard to restoration of the mains water supply."

30 September 2014

"UNRWA was not able to distribute in Yarmouk today, 29 September. The UNRWA distribution team arrived at the Bateekhah northern entrance to Yarmouk at 10:05 but could not enter due to gunfire and mortars affecting affecting the vicinity of distribution area. The team safely departed for the UNRWA Syria Field Office at 12:00.

"UNRWA is deeply concerned that the recourse to armed violence frequently interrupts life-saving humanitarian operations in Yarmouk. The humanitarian situation in Yarmouk remains desperate and UNRWA appeals to all parties to do everything in their power to end the suffering of the over 18,000 civilians trapped there. The Agency will continue to seek from all sides conditions that enable UNRWA to offer a full range of humanitarian assistance and services inside Yarmouk on an uninterrupted, substantial and safe basis."

29 September 2014

"UNRWA was not permitted to distribute in Yarmouk today, 29 September.

28 September 2014

"UNRWA was not permitted to distribute in Yarmouk today, 28 September.

27 September 2014

"UNRWA distributed food parcels to 192 families and provided health assistance in Yarmouk today, 27 September. The UNRWA team arrived at the Bateekhah northern entrance to Yarmouk at 10:30 and commenced distribution inside Yarmouk at 12:10. The operation continued until 14:45, when the authorities signalled an end to the process.

26 September 2014

"UNRWA distributed food parcels to 200 families and provided health assistance in Yarmouk today, 26 September. The UNRWA team arrived at the Bateekhah northern entrance to Yarmouk at 09:55 and commenced distribution inside Yarmouk at 12:50. The operation continued until 16:10, when the authorities signalled an end to the process.

25 September 2014

"UNRWA was not able to distribute in Yarmouk today, 25 September. The UNRWA team arrived at the Bateekhah northern entrance to Yarmouk at 11:50 but could not enter due to mortar impacts and gunfire in the vicinity of the distribution area. The team returned safely to the Syria Field Office at 14:05.

24 September 2014

"UNRWA not permitted to distribute in Yarmouk today, 24 September.

23 September 2014

"UNRWA not permitted to distribute in Yarmouk today, 23 September.

22 September 2014

"UNRWA not permitted to distribute in Yarmouk today, 22 September.

21 September 2014

"UNRWA not permitted to distribute in Yarmouk today, 21 September.

20 September 2014

"UNRWA distributed food parcels and bread to 181 families and provided medical treatment to 169 patients in Yarmouk today, 20 September. This is the third consecutive day of UNRWA distribution after four days without access between 14 and 17 September due to sporadic clashes in the surrounding areas.

"The UNRWA team arrived at the northern Bateekhah entrance to Yarmouk at 10:00 and began operations inside Yarmouk at 11:30. The distribution proceeded in an orderly manner until 15:00, when the authorities signaled an end to the process.

19 September 2014

"UNRWA distributed food parcels and bread to 389 families and provided medical treatment to 170 patients in Yarmouk today, 19 September. This is the second day of UNRWA distribution after four days without access between 14 and 17 September due to sporadic clashes in the surrounding areas.

"The UNRWA team arrived at the northern Bateekhah entrance to Yarmouk at 09:50 and began operations inside Yarmouk at 10:00. The distribution proceeded in an orderly manner until 15:12, when the authorities signaled an end to the process.

18 September 2014

"UNRWA distributed food parcels and bread to 337 families and provided medical treatment to 191 patients in Yarmouk today, 18 September. This is the first day of UNRWA distribution after four days without access between 14 and 17 September due to sporadic clashes in the surrounding areas.

"The UNRWA team arrived at the northern Bateekhah entrance to Yarmouk at 10:00 and began operations inside Yarmouk at 11:15. The distribution proceeded in an orderly manner until 15:35, when the authorities signaled an end to the process.

17 September 2014

"UNRWA was not authorized to distribute humanitarian assistance in Yarmouk on 17 September, due to continued sporadic armed clashes and shelling in the surrounding neighbourhoods. This is the fourth consecutive day that UNRWA is not able to distribute humanitarian assistance to the over 18,000 civilians trapped in Yarmouk.

"UNRWA is deeply concerned that the recourse to armed violence frequently interrupts life-saving humanitarian operations in Yarmouk. The humanitarian situation in Yarmouk remains desperate and UNRWA appeals to all parties to do everything in their power to end the suffering of the civilians of Yarmouk. The Agency will continue to seek from all sides conditions that enable UNRWA to offer a full range of humanitarian assistance and services inside Yarmouk on an uninterrupted, substantial and safe basis."

16 September 2014

"UNRWA was not authorized to distribute humanitarian assistance in Yarmouk on 16 September, due to continued sporadic armed clashes and shelling in the surrounding neighbourhoods. This is the third consecutive day that UNRWA is not able to distribute humanitarian assistance in Yarmouk.

15 September 2014

"UNRWA was not authorized to distribute humanitarian assistance in Yarmouk on 15 September, due to sporadic armed clashes and shelling in the surrounding neighbourhoods. This is the second consecutive day that UNRWA is not able to distribute humanitarian assistance in Yarmouk following seven days of operations.

14 September 2014

"UNRWA was not authorized to distribute humanitarian assistance in Yarmouk on 14 September, following seven days of operations.

"UNRWA is deeply concerned that life-saving humanitarian operations continue to be frequently interrupted in Yarmouk. The humanitarian situation in Yarmouk remains desperate and UNRWA appeals to all parties to do everything in their power to end the suffering of the over 18,000 civilians trapped there. The Agency will continue to seek from all sides conditions that enable UNRWA to offer a full range of humanitarian assistance and services inside Yarmouk on an uninterrupted, substantial and safe basis."

13 September 2014

"UNRWA distributed food parcels to 359 families and provided medical treatment to 161 patients in Yarmouk today, 13 September. This is the seventh consecutive day of UNRWA distribution after four days without access between 3 and 6 September.

"The UNRWA team arrived at the northern Bateekhah entrance to Yarmouk at 10:00 and began operations inside Yarmouk at 10:40. The distribution proceeded in an orderly manner until 13:50, when the authorities signaled an end to the process.

12 September 2014

"UNRWA distributed food parcels and supplementary bread to 295 families and provided medical treatment to 183 patients in Yarmouk today, 12 September. This is the sixth consecutive day of UNRWA distribution after four days without access between 3 and 6 September.

"The UNRWA team arrived at the northern Bateekhah entrance to Yarmouk at 09:40 and began operations inside Yarmouk at 10:40. The distribution proceeded in an orderly manner until 13:30, when the authorities signaled an end to the process.

11 September 2014

"UNRWA distributed food parcels and supplementary bread to 350 families and provided medical treatment to 147 patients in Yarmouk today, 11 September. This is the fifth consecutive day of UNRWA distribution after four days without access between 3 and 6 September.

"The UNRWA team arrived at the northern Bateekhah entrance to Yarmouk at 10:00 and began operations inside Yarmouk at 10:30. The distribution proceeded in an orderly manner until 13:55, when the authorities signaled an end to the process.

10 September 2014

"UNRWA distributed food parcels to 350 families and provided medical treatment to 130 civilians in Yarmouk today, 10 September. This is the fourth day of UNRWA distribution after four days without access between 3 and 6 September.

"The UNRWA team arrived at the northern Bateekhah entrance to Yarmouk at 10:00 and began operations inside Yarmouk at 11:00. The distribution proceeded in an orderly manner until 14:30, when the authorities signaled an end to the process.

9 September 2014

"UNRWA distributed food parcels to 235 families and provided medical treatment to 260 civilians in Yarmouk today, 9 September. This is the third day of UNRWA distribution after four days without access between 3 and 6 September.

"The UNRWA team arrived at the northern Bateekhah entrance to Yarmouk at 09:55 and began operations inside Yarmouk at 11:00. The distribution proceeded in an orderly manner until 14:10, when the authorities signaled an end to the process.

8 September 2014

"UNRWA distributed food parcels to 350 families and provided medical treatment to civilians in Yarmouk today, 8 September. This is the second day of UNRWA distribution after four days without access between 3 and 6 September.

"The UNRWA team arrived at the northern Bateekhah entrance to Yarmouk at 10:00 and began operations inside Yarmouk at 11:15. The distribution proceeded in an orderly manner until 13:50, when the authorities signaled an end to the process.

7 September 2014

"UNRWA distributed food parcels to 350 families and treated 163 medical patients in Yarmouk today, 7 September. This is the first day of UNRWA distribution after four days without access to Yarmouk.

"The UNRWA team arrived at the northern Bateekhah entrance to Yarmouk at 10:10 and began operations inside Yarmouk at 12:00. The distribution proceeded in an orderly manner until 15:30, when the authorities signaled an end to the process.

6 September 2014

"For the fourth consecutive day UNRWA was not authorized to distribute humanitarian assistance in Yarmouk on 6 September.

5 September 2014

"For the third consecutive day UNRWA was not authorized to distribute humanitarian assistance in Yarmouk on 5 September.

4 September 2014

"UNRWA was not authorized to distribute humanitarian assistance in Yarmouk on 4 September.

3 September 2014

"UNRWA was not authorized to distribute humanitarian assistance in Yarmouk on 3 September.

2 September 2014

"UNRWA distributed hygiene kits to 242 families, while its medical team supported 150 individuals with medical supplies in Yarmouk on 2 September.

"The UNRWA team arrived at the northern Bateekhah entrance to Yarmouk at 10:20 and began operations inside Yarmouk at 11:20. The distribution proceeded in an orderly manner until 15:00, when the authorities signaled an end to the process.

1 September 2014

"UNRWA distributed hygiene kits to 295 families, while its health team supported 264 individuals with medical supplies in Yarmouk on 1 September.

"The UNRWA team arrived at the northern Bateekhah entrance to Yarmouk at 10:10 and began operations inside Yarmouk at 11:00. The distribution proceeded in an orderly manner until 15:00, when the authorities signaled an end to the process.

31 August 2014

"UNRWA distributed food parcels to 350 families and continued to provide health assistance in Yarmouk, 31 August.

"The UNRWA team arrived at the northern Bateekhah entrance to Yarmouk at 09:55 and began operations inside Yarmouk at 10:40. The distribution proceeded in an orderly manner until 13:55, when the authorities signaled an end to the process.

30 August 2014

"UNRWA distributed food parcels to 350 families and continued to provide health assistance in Yarmouk, 30 August. This is the fourth consecutive day of operation following a one-day break on 26 August, after clashes and mortar impacts affected the distribution area on 25 August.

"The UNRWA team arrived at the northern Bateekhah entrance to Yarmouk at 09:45 and began operations inside Yarmouk at 11:15. The distribution proceeded in an orderly manner until 14:05, when the authorities signaled an end to the process.

29 August 2014

"UNRWA distributed food parcels to 350 families and treated 96 health cases in Yarmouk today, 29 August. This is the third consecutive day of operation following a one-day break on 26 August, after clashes and mortar impacts affected the distribution area on 25 August.

"The UNRWA team arrived at the northern Bateekhah entrance to Yarmouk at 09:50 and began operations inside Yarmouk at 10:55. The distribution proceeded in an orderly manner until 13:30, when the authorities signaled an end to the process.

28 August 2014

Our spokesperson Chris Gunness has the following to say on the situation in Yarmouk Camp

"UNRWA distributed food and provided health assistance to 350 families in Yarmouk today, 28 August. This is the second consecutive day of operation following a one-day break on 26 August, after clashes and mortar impacts affected the distribution area on 25 August.

"The UNRWA team arrived at the northern Bateekhah entrance to Yarmouk at 09:30 and began operations inside Yarmouk at 11:00. The distribution proceeded in an orderly manner until 13:00, when the authorities signaled an end to the process.

27 August 2014

"UNRWA distributed food to 350 families and provided health assistance to 200 families today, 27 August. This operation follows a one-day break on 26 August, after clashes and mortar impacts affected the distribution area on 25 August.

"The UNRWA team arrived at the northern Bateekhah entrance to Yarmouk at 10:50 and began operations inside Yarmouk at 13:00. The distribution proceeded in an orderly manner until 16:00, when the authorities signaled an end to the process.

26 August 2014

"There was no UNRWA distribution in Yarmouk today, 26 August, following clashes and mortar fire affecting the distribution area on 25 August. UNRWA is working with concerned parties to restore access as soon as possible.

25 August 2014

"UNRWA distributed 200 food parcels and treated 150 patients in Yarmouk today, 25 August. The operation was cut short when clashes and mortar fire affected the distribution area in the early afternoon. All UNRWA staff immediately exited the area and returned safely to the Syria Field Office.

"The UNRWA team arrived at the northern Bateekhah entrance to Yarmouk at 10:10 and began operations inside Yarmouk at 11:30. The distribution proceeded in an orderly manner until 12:55, when gunfire and mortars struck the vicinity of the distribution point, forcing the UNRWA team to withdraw. UNRWA has confirmed reports of one fatality among the authorities present.

24 August 2014

"UNRWA distributed 138 food parcels and a limited quantity of medicines in Yarmouk today, 24 August. UNRWA doctor received 100 patients providing them with diabetes and hypertension medicines in addition to antibiotics.

"The UNRWA team arrived at the northern Bateekhah entrance to Yarmouk at 09:30 this morning, starting distribution of food parcels and medicines at 12:10. The distribution proceeded in an orderly manner until 12:50, when the UNRWA team was forced to withdraw after armed clashes and mortar fire erupted in the vicinity of the distribution point. All civilians and UNRWA staff safely left the distribution area and no injuries or casualties were reported.

23 August 2014

"UNRWA distributed hygiene kits to 339 civilian families in Yarmouk on 23 August.

"The UNRWA team arrived at northern Bateekhah entrance at 09:35 and distribution commenced in Yarmouk at 12:05. Distribution continued in an orderly manner until 15:00, when the operation was concluded.

"The humanitarian situation in Yarmouk remains desperate and UNRWA appeals to all parties to do everything in their power to end the suffering of the over 18,000 civilians trapped there. UNRWA is deeply concerned that the recourse to armed violence frequently interrupts life-saving humanitarian operations in Yarmouk. The Agency will continue to seek from all sides conditions that enable UNRWA to offer a full range of humanitarian assistance and services inside Yarmouk on an uninterrupted, substantial and safe basis."

22 August 2014

"UNRWA distributed hygiene kits to 327 civilian families in Yarmouk on 22 August.

"The UNRWA team arrived at northern Bateekhah entrance at 09:15 and distribution commenced in Yarmouk at 11:30. Distribution continued in an orderly manner until 15:00, when the operation was concluded.

21 August 2014

Our spokesperson Chris Gunness has the following to say on the situation in Yarmouk Camp

"UNRWA distributed hygiene kits to 265 civilian families in Yarmouk on 21 August.

"The UNRWA team arrived at northern Bateekhah entrance at 09:15 and distribution commenced in Yarmouk at 11:30. Distribution continued in an orderly manner until 14:50, when the operation was concluded.

20 August 2014

"UNRWA distributed hygiene kits to 82 civilian families in Yarmouk on 20 August, following a break of humanitarian distributions over the last 10 days.

"The UNRWA team arrived at northern Bateekhah entrance at 10:00 and distribution commenced in Yarmouk at 14:15. Distribution continued in an orderly manner until 16:30, when the operation was concluded.

"The humanitarian situation in Yarmouk remains desperate and UNRWA appeals to all parties to do everything in their power to end the suffering of the over 18,000 civilians trapped there. UNRWA is deeply concerned that the recourse to armed violence frequently interrupts life-saving humanitarian operations in Yarmouk. The Agency will continue to seek from all sides conditions that enable UNRWA to offer a full range of humanitarian assistance and serivces inside Yarmouk on a uninterrupted, substantial and safe basis."

19 August 2014

"There was no distribution of humanitarian assistance in Yarmouk today, 19 August. This is the tenth consecutive day that UNRWA has not been authorized to distribute any humanitarian assistance in Yarmouk, with sporadic armed violence affecting the area over the last weeks. UNRWA is concerned that its last food distribution in Yarmouk took place on July 24th, with provided supplies expected to run out after ten days. The Agency continues to appeal to the Syrian authorities to facilitate a resumption of humanitarian operations as a matter of urgency.

"UNRWA is deeply concerned that the recourse to armed violence continues to interrupt life-saving humanitarian operations in Yarmouk. The humanitarian situation in Yarmouk remains desperate and UNRWA appeals to all parties to do everything in their power to end the suffering of the over 18,000 civilians trapped there. The Agency will continue to seek from all sides conditions that enable UNRWA to offer a full range of humanitarian assistance and services inside Yarmouk on an interrupted, substantial and safe basis."

18 August 2014

"There was no distribution of humanitarian assistance in Yarmouk today, 18 August. This is the ninth consecutive day that UNRWA has not been authorized to distribute any humanitarian assistance in Yarmouk, with sporadic armed violence affecting the area over the last weeks. UNRWA is concerned that its last food distribution in Yarmouk took place on July 24th, with provided supplies expected to run out after ten days. The Agency continues to appeal to the Syrian authorities to facilitate a resumption of humanitarian operations as a matter of urgency.

17 August 2014

"There was no distribution of humanitarian assistance in Yarmouk today, 17 August. This is the eighth consecutive day that UNRWA has not been authorized to distribute any humanitarian assistance in Yarmouk, with recurrent clashes affecting the area over the last week. UNRWA is concerned that its last food distribution in Yarmouk took place on July 24th. The Agency continues to appeal to the Syrian authorities to facilitate a resumption of humanitarian operations as soon as possible.

16 August 2014

"There was no distribution of humanitarian assistance in Yarmouk today, 16 August. This is the seventh consecutive day that UNRWA has not been authorized to distribute any humanitarian assistance in Yarmouk, with recurrent clashes affecting the area over the last week. UNRWA is concerned that its last food distribution in Yarmouk took place on July 24th. The Agency has appealed to the Syrian authorities to facilitate a resumption of humanitarian operations as soon as possible.

"UNRWA is deeply concerned that the recourse to armed violence frequently interrupts humanitarian operations in Yarmouk. The humanitarian situation in Yarmouk remains desperate and UNRWA appeals to all parties to do everything in their power to end the suffering of the over 18,000 civilians trapped there. The Agency will continue to seek from all sides conditions that enable UNRWA to offer a full range of humanitarian assistance and services inside Yarmouk on an interrupted, substantial and safe basis."

15 August 2014

"There was no UNRWA distribution of humanitarian assistance in Yarmouk today, 15 August. This is the sixth consecutive day that UNRWA has not been authorized to distribute any humanitarian assistance in Yarmouk, with recurrent clashes affecting the area over the last week. UNRWA's last food distribution in Yarmouk took place on July 24th. The Agency has appealed to the Syrian authorities to facilitate a resumption of humanitarian operations as soon as possible.

14 August 2014

"There was no UNRWA distribution of humanitarian assistance in Yarmouk today, 14 August. This is the fifth consecutive day that UNRWA has not been authorized to distribute in Yarmouk, with recurrent clashes affecting the area over the last week. UNRWA has appealed to the Syrian authorities to facilitate a resumption of humanitarian operations as soon as possible.

13 August 2014

"There was no UNRWA distribution of humanitarian assistance in Yarmouk today, 13 August. This is the fourth consecutive day that UNRWA has not been authorized to distribute in Yarmouk, with clashes affecting the area throughout this period. UNRWA has appealed to the Syrian authorities to facilitate a resumption of humanitarian operations as soon as possible.

12 August 2014

"There was no UNRWA distribution of humanitarian assistance in Yarmouk today, 12 August. This is the third consecutive day that UNRWA has not been authorized to distribute in Yarmouk, following clashes on 9 and 10 August. UNRWA has appealed to the Syrian authorities to facilitate a resumption of humanitarian operations as soon as possible.

11 August 2014

"There was no UNRWA distribution of humanitarian assistance in Yarmouk today, 11 August. This is the second consecutive day that UNRWA has not been authorized to distribute in Yarmouk, following clashes on 9 and 10 August. UNRWA has appealed to the Syrian authorities to facilitate a resumption of humanitarian operations as soon as possible.

10 August 2014

"There was no UNRWA distribution in Yarmouk today, 10 August, following five days of distribution between 5 and 9 August. The UNRWA distribution team arrived at the northern Bateekhah entrance to Yarmouk at 10:15 and were informed by the authorities that gunfire had struck the area during the previous evening and night, resulting in casualties. As such, UNRWA distribution would not be authroised for 10 August. The UNRWA distribution team departed Bateekhah at 10:45, returning safely to the Syria Field Office.

"The humanitarian situation in Yarmouk remains desperate and UNRWA appeals to all parties to do everything in their power to end the suffering of the over 18,000 civilians trapped there. UNRWA is deeply concerned that the recourse to armed violence frequently interrupts humanitarian operations in Yarmouk. The Agency will continue to seek from all sides conditions that enable UNRWA to offer a full range of humanitarian assistance and services inside Yarmouk on an uninterrupted, substantial and safe basis."

8 August 2014

"UNRWA distributed hygiene kits to 100 civilian families in Yarmouk on 8 August. This was the fourth consecutive day of distribution, following a break of eight days between 28 July and 4 August.

"The UNRWA distribution team arrived at the Bateekhah northern entrance at 10:00 and were permitted to commence operations in Yarmouk at 11:00. Distribution of hygiene kits continued in a calm and orderly manner until 12:30, when the operation was concluded.

"The humanitarian situation in Yarmouk remains desperate and UNRWA appeals to all parties to do everything in their power to end the suffering of the over 18,000 civilians trapped there. UNRWA is deeply concerned that the recourse to armed violence frequently interrupts humanitarian operations in Yarmouk. The Agency will continue to seek from all sides conditions that enable UNRWA to offer a full range of humanitarian assistance and services inside Yarmouk on an uninterrupted, substantial and safe basis."

7 August 2014

"UNRWA distributed hygiene kits to 500 civilian families and provided healthcare to 360 patients in Yarmouk on 7 August. This was the third consecutive day of distribution, following a break of eight days between 28 July and 4 August. Today’s operation proceeded in a calm and orderly manner throughout the day, though clashes broke out in the vicinity of the distribution area and gunfire struck the staging area as the UNRWA team departed in the late afternoon.

"The UNRWA distribution and health teams arrived at the Bateekhah northern entrance at 10:05 and were permitted to commence operations in Yarmouk at 11:00. Distribution of hygiene kits and provision of healthcare continued until 15:00, when the operation was concluded. The UNRWA team departed Bateekhah at 15:15, as clashes broke out inside Yarmouk and gunfire struck the staging area, returning safely to the Syria Field Office.

6 August 2014

"UNRWA distributed hygiene kits to 283 civilian families in Yarmouk on 6 August. This was the second consecutive day of distribution, following a break of eight days between 28 July and 4 August. Today’s distribution was halted when gunfire struck the staging area and clashes broke out in the vicinity of the distribution area, forcing the UNRWA team to evacuate in the late afternoon.

"Following a preliminary assessment mission by UNRWA security and operations staff earlier in the morning, the UNRWA distribution team arrived at the Bateekhah northern entrance at 11:30 and was permitted to enter Yarmouk at 12:30. Distribution commenced at 13:00 and proceeded in a calm and orderly manner until 15:15, when clashes broke out nearby. The UNRWA team immediately relocated to the Bateekhah northern entrance and departed the area at 15:25, returning safely to the Syria Field Office.

"UNRWA is deeply concerned that the recourse to armed violence has, for the second consecutive day, interrupted humanitarian operations in Yarmouk. The humanitarian situation in Yarmouk remains desperate and UNRWA appeals to all parties to do everything in their power to end the suffering of the over 18,000 civilians trapped there. The Agency will continue to seek from all sides conditions that enable UNRWA to offer a full range of humanitarian assistance and services inside Yarmouk on an uninterrupted, substantial and safe basis."

5 August 2014

"UNRWA distributed hygiene kits to 247 civilian families on 5 August, following eight days with no UNRWA distribution in Yarmouk. Today’s distribution was halted when armed clashes erupted in the immediate vicinity of the distribution area, forcing the UNRWA team to evacuate in the early afternoon.

"The UNRWA team arrived at the Bateekhah northern entrance at 10:30 and was permitted to enter Yarmouk at 11:30. Distribution commenced at 11:50 and proceeded in a calm and orderly manner until 13:15, when clashes erupted nearby. The UNRWA team immediately relocated to the Bateekhah northern entrance and departed the area at 13:25, returning safely to the Syria Field Office.

"UNRWA is deeply concerned that the recourse to armed violence has, once again, interrupted humanitarian operations in Yarmouk. The humanitarian situation in Yarmouk remains desperate and UNRWA appeals to all parties to do everything in their power to end the suffering of the over 18,000 civilians trapped there. The Agency will continue to seek from all sides conditions that enable UNRWA to offer a full range of humanitarian assistance and services inside Yarmouk on an uninterrupted, substantial and safe basis."

4 August 2014

"There was no UNRWA distribution of food or medical assistance in Yarmouk today, 4 August. This is the eighth consecutive day that UNRWA has not been authorised to distribute in Yarmouk. UNRWA has now received assurances from the Syrian authorities that distribution of humanitarian materials may resume in Yarmouk tomorrow, 5 August.

"UNRWA remains deeply concerned about the desperate humanitarian situation in Yarmouk and appeals to all parties to do everything in their power to end the suffering of the over 18,000 civilians trapped there. The Agency will continue to seek from all sides conditions that enable UNRWA to offer a full range of humanitarian assistance and services inside Yarmouk on an uninterrupted, substantial and safe basis."

3 August 2014

"There was no UNRWA distribution of food or medical assistance in Yarmouk today, 3 August. This is the seventh consecutive day that UNRWA has not been authorised to distribute in Yarmouk. UNRWA is increasingly troubled by this sustained pause and has appealed to the Syrian authorities to facilitate a resumption of humanitarian operations as soon as possible.

"UNRWA remains deeply concerned about the desperate humanitarian situation in Yarmouk and will continue to appeal to all parties to do everything in their power to end the suffering of the over 18,000 civilians trapped there. The Agency will continue to seek from all sides conditions that enable UNRWA to offer a full range of humanitarian assistance and services inside Yarmouk on a continuous, substantial and safe basis."

2 August 2014

"There was no UNRWA distribution of food or medical assistance in Yarmouk today, 2 August. This is the sixth consecutive day that UNRWA has not been authorised to distribute in Yarmouk. UNRWA is negotiating with the authorities to restore access as soon as possible.

1 August 2014

"There was no UNRWA distribution of food or medical assistance in Yarmouk today, 1 August. This is the fifth consecutive day that UNRWA has not been authorised to distribute in Yarmouk. UNRWA is negotiating with the authorities to restore access as soon as possible.

"Although no humanitarian assistance was distributed, UNRWA arranged for the transportation of 5 students from Yarmouk to accommodation elsewhere in Damascus, in preparation for state exams on 3 August. UNRWA will provide food, hygiene kits, bedding and a cash stipend to cover the duration of their stay.

31 July 2014

"There was no UNRWA distribution in Yarmouk today, 31 July. UNRWA has been informed by the Syrian authorities that food distribution will be permitted to recommence tomorrow, Friday, 1 August. UNRWA stands ready to resume operations immediately and is encouraging all parties to continue facilitation of food, medical and other humanitarian assistance to civilians in Yarmouk, as soon as possible.

"UNRWA remains deeply concerned about the desperate humanitarian situation in Yarmouk and the fact that frequent disruptions of its humanitarian efforts deepen the plight of over 18,000 trapped civilians. UNRWA has reiterated its appeals to all parties to ensure that UNRWA is permitted to distribute humanitarian assistance in Yarmouk on a continuous, substantial and safe basis. UNRWA requires uninterrupted, daily access to Yarmouk to meet the minimum humanitarian needs of the civilian population."

30 July 2014

"There was no UNRWA distribution in Yarmouk today, 30 July. UNRWA has been informed by the Syrian authorities that distribution will be permitted to recommence on Thursday, 31 July, following completion of the Eid al-Fitr period. UNRWA stands ready to resume operations immediately and is encouraging all parties to continue facilitation of food and medical assistance to civilians in Yarmouk, as soon as possible.

29 July 2014

Our spokesperson Chris Gunness has the following to say on the situation in Yarmouk Camp

"There was no UNRWA distribution in Yarmouk today, 29 July. UNRWA has been informed by the Syrian authorities that distribution will be permitted to recommence on Thursday, 31 July, following completion of the Eid al-Fitr period. UNRWA stands ready to resume operations immediately and is encouraging all parties to continue facilitation of food and medical assistance to civilians in Yarmouk, as soon as possible.

28 July 2014

"There was no UNRWA distribution in Yarmouk today, due to the occasion of Eid al-Fitr. UNRWA stands ready to resume operations and is encouraging all parties to continue and expand the recent facilitation of food and medical assistance to civilians in Yarmouk.

27 July 2014

"For the fourth consecutive day, UNRWA was able to provide basic healthcare and medicines to 305 patients, including 38 non-communicable disease (NCD) patients, at a temporary health point inside Yarmouk. Medicines included antibiotics, treatments for hypertension, asthma, diabetes and epilepsy, as well as oral rehydration salts and lice/scabies treatments.

"The UNRWA team arrived at northern Bateekhah entrance at 10:15 and was authorized to commence operations in Yarmouk at 11:30. The UNRWA team left Yarmouk at 14:45, when Syrian authorities signaled an end to operations. UNRWA acknowledges the facilitation of the Syrian authorities in today's operations.

"UNRWA was not authorized to distribute food parcels in Yarmouk today. This interruption follows a period of food distribution from 16 to 24 July, during which UNRWA distributed food parcels to 4,673 civilian families in Yarmouk.

"UNRWA is encouraged by the continued distribution of essential and life-saving medical supplies but remains deeply concerned about the desperate humanitarian situation in Yarmouk. The Agency appeals to all parties to do everything in their power to end the suffering of the over 18,000 civilians trapped there. UNRWA will continue to seek from all sides conditions that enable UNRWA to offer a full range of humanitarian assistance and services inside Yarmouk on a continuous, substantial and safe basis."

26 July 2014

"For the third consecutive day, UNRWA was able to provide basic healthcare and medicines to 327 patients, including 45 NCD patients, in a temporary health point inside Yarmouk. Medicines issued included antibiotics, anti-hypertension, anti-asthma, anti-diabetic, and anti-epileptic medicines, oral rehydration salts and lice/scabies treatments. In addition, UNRWA transferred typhoid medicines comprising a range of antibiotics, syrups, and tablets, sufficient for approximately 150 patients, to the Palestine Red Crescent Society (PRCS), for treatment of patients inside Yarmouk. This is to sustain the response to the cases of typhoid confirmed on 19th July 2014 for which UNRWA already provided medication to cover 100 patients. UNRWA acknowledges with gratitude the role of PRCS in this response.

"The UNRWA team arrived at northern Bateekhah entrance at 10:40 and was authorized to commence operations in Yarmouk at 11:10. The UNRWA team left Yarmouk at 14:15, when Syrian authorities signaled an end to operations. UNRWA acknowledges the facilitation of the Syrian authorities in today's operations.

"UNRWA is encouraged by the continued distribution of essential life-saving medical supplies but remains deeply concerned about the desperate humanitarian situation in Yarmouk and appeals to all parties to do everything in their power to end the suffering of the over 18,000 civilians trapped there. The Agency will continue to seek from all sides conditions that enable UNRWA to offer a full range of humanitarian assistance and services inside Yarmouk on a continuous, substantial and safe basis."

25 July 2014

"For the second consecutive day, UNRWA was able to provide much needed basic healthcare and medicines to 280 patients, including 47 NCD patients, in a temporary health point inside Yarmouk. Medicines issued included antibiotics, anti-hypertension, anti-asthma drugs, anti-diabetic, anti-epileptic medicines, oral rehydration salts and lice/scabies treatments. In addition, for the first time since resuming distributions on January 18th 2014, UNRWA was able to distribute a range of life-saving vaccines, including vaccines for infants such as 240 doses of BCG vaccines, 250 doses of MMR vaccines, 1,000 doses of polio vaccines and 500 doses of Penta vaccines, as well as 300 doses of anti-tetanus vaccines for pregnant women, and 500 Hepatitis B vaccines.

"The UNRWA team arrived at northern Bateekhah entrance at 11:30 and was authorized to commence operations in Yarmouk at 12:00. The UNRWA team left Yarmouk at 15:00, when Syrian authorities signaled an end to operations. UNRWA acknowledges the facilitation of the Syrian authorities in today's operations.

"UNRWA is encouraged by the distribution of essential medical supplies and life-saving vaccines but remains deeply concerned about the desperate humanitarian situation in Yarmouk and continues to appeal to all parties to do everything in their power to end the suffering of the over 18,000 civilians trapped there. The Agency will continue to seek from all sides conditions that enable UNRWA to offer a full range of humanitarian assistance and services inside Yarmouk on a continuous, substantial and safe basis."

23 July 2014

"UNRWA distributed food parcels to 495 families in Yarmouk on 23 July, in addition to vitamin packs rehydration salts, lice/scabies treatments and a range of other food items.

"The UNRWA team arrived at northern Bateekhah entrance at 10:30 and was authorized to commence distribution in Yarmouk immediately. Distribution continued until 14:30, when Syrian authorities signaled an end to the distribution. UNRWA acknowledges the facilitation of the Syrian authorities in today's distribution.

22 July 2014

"UNRWA distributed food parcels to 476 families in Yarmouk on 22 July, in addition to 20 baby hygiene kits, vitamin packs rehydration salts, lice/scabies treatments and a range of other food items.

"The UNRWA team arrived at northern Bateekhah entrance at 10:45 and was authorized to commence distribution in Yarmouk at 11:00. Distribution continued until 15:00, when Syrian authorities signalled an end to the distribution. UNRWA acknowledges the facilitation of the Syrian authorities in today's distribution.

21 July 2014

"UNRWA distributed food parcels to 475 families in Yarmouk on 21 July, in addition to 20 baby hygiene kits, vitamin packs rehydration salts, lice/scabies treatments and a range of other food items.

"The UNRWA team arrived at northern Bateekhah entrance at 11:00 and was authorized to commence distribution in Yarmouk at 11:30. Distribution continued until 16:00, when Syrian authorities signalled an end to the distribution. UNRWA acknowledges the facilitation of the Syrian authorities in today's distribution.

20 July 2014

"UNRWA distributed food parcels to 478 families in Yarmouk today, 20 July, in addition to 20 baby hygiene kits, vitamin packs rehydration salts, lice/scabies treatments and a range of other food items.

"The UNRWA team arrived at northern Bateekhah entrance at 10:30 and was authorized to commence distribution in Yarmouk at 10:50. Distribution continued until 14:40, when Syrian authorities signalled an end to the distribution. UNRWA acknowledges the facilitation of the Syrian authorities in today's distribution.

18 July 2014

Our spokesperson Chris Gunness has the following to say on the situation in Yarmouk Camp

"UNRWA distributed food parcels to 600 families in Yarmouk today, 18 July, in addition to 20 baby hygiene kits, vitamin packs rehydration salts, lice/scabies treatments and a range of other food items.

"The UNRWA team arrived at northern Bateekhah entrance at 10:00 and was authorized to commence distribution in Yarmouk at 11:10. Distribution continued until 15:40, when Syrian authorities signalled an end to the distribution. UNRWA acknowledges the facilitation of the Syrian authorities in today's distribution.

16 July 2014

Our spokesperson Chris Gunness has the following to say on the situation in Yarmouk Camp

"UNRWA distributed food parcels to 600 families in Yarmouk today, 16 July, in addition to 20 baby hygiene kits, vitamin packs rehydration salts, lice/scabies treatments and a range of other food items. The UNRWA team also delivered three thousand doses of polio vaccine for use inside Yarmouk.

"The UNRWA team arrived at northern Bateekhah entrance at 10:30 and was authorized to commence distribution in Yarmouk at 11:15. Distribution continued until 15:00, when Syrian authorities signalled an end to the distribution. UNRWA welcomes the resumption of its food distribution after a break of two days and acknowledges the facilitation of the Syrian authorities in today's distribution.

15 July 2014

Our spokesperson Chris Gunness has the following to say on the situation in Yarmouk Camp

"UNRWA was not authorized to distribute food parcels in Yarmouk today, 15 July. This interruption follows a period of food distribution from 7 to 13 July, during which UNRWA distributed food parcels to 3,316 civilian families in Yarmouk. Syrian authorities informed UNRWA that Palestinian charities had been authorized to distribute food parcels inside Yarmouk and that UNRWA’s food distribution will be permitted to resume shortly.

14 July 2014

Our spokesperson Chris Gunness has the following to say on the situation in Yarmouk Camp

"UNRWA was not authorized to distribute food parcels in Yarmouk today, 14 July. This interruption follows a period of food distribution from 7 to 13 July, during which UNRWA distributed food parcels to 3,316 civilian families in Yarmouk. Syrian authorities informed UNRWA that Palestinian charities had been authorized to distribute food parcels inside Yarmouk and that UNRWA’s food distribution will be permitted to resume shortly.

13 July 2014

"With world attention focusing on Gaza and UNRWA opening 10 installations receiving over ten thousand people fleeing the fighting particularly in northern Gaza, we have also continued our emergency work in the besieged refugee camp of Yarmouk in Damascus, home to 18,000 Palestine refugees.

"Today, UNRWA delivered food parcels, hummus, jam, vitamin supplements, re-hydration salts, baby-kits and lice and scabies treatments to 600 civilian families in Yarmouk.

"The UNRWA team arrived at the northern Bateekhah entrance of Yarmouk at 10:15 hrs and commenced its work at 11:00 hrs at the distribution point adjacent to Rama Street inside Yarmouk. The distribution proceeded in an orderly manner until its completion at 15:00 hrs.

"UNRWA welcomes the support and facilitation of Syrian authorities. This facilitation must be maintained to enable UNRWA to sustain and expand its humanitarian work inside Yarmouk for the sake of the over 18,000 civilians trapped there.

"Civilians in Yarmouk continue to endure wretched conditions and grave humanitarian needs. All concerned parties must do much more to enable UNRWA to address these needs in a more sustained and substantial manner.

"UNRWA will maintain its advocacy for continuous, substantial and safe humanitarian access, and for the protection of Palestinian and Syrian civilians in Yarmouk and across Syria."

12 July 2014

"Today, UNRWA delivered food parcels, hummus, jam, vitamin supplements, re-hydration salts, baby-kits and lice and scabies treatments to 600 civilian families in Yarmouk. This was the sixth consecutive day of UNRWA food distribution in Yarmouk since it resumed following a long break.

"The UNRWA team arrived at the northern Bateekhah entrance of Yarmouk at 10:15 hrs and commenced its work at 11:15 hrs at the distribution point adjacent to Rama Street inside Yarmouk. The distribution proceeded in an orderly manner until its completion at 16:15 hrs.

"The support and facilitation of Syrian authorities is welcome. This must continue to enable UNRWA to sustain its food distribution and also to offer medicines and other aid items to the over 18,000 civilians in Yarmouk.

"UNRWA will maintain its advocacy for continuous, substantial and safe humanitarian access, and for the protection of Palestinian and Syrian civilians in Yarmouk and across Syria."

11 July 2014

"UNRWA's food distribution inside Yarmouk continued for a fifth consecutive day since it resumed following a long break. In five hours, the UNRWA team today delivered food parcels, hummus, jam, vitamin supplements, re-hydration salts, lice and scabies treatments to 585 civilian families in Yarmouk.

"The UNRWA team arrived at the northern Bateekhah entrance of Yarmouk at 10:00 hrs and commenced its work at 11:30 hrs at the distribution point adjacent to Rama Street inside Yarmouk. The distribution proceeded in an organized and orderly manner until its completion at 16:30 hrs.

"The support and facilitation of Syrian authorities remains essential to sustaining UNRWA's food distribution and to extending the availability of food and other aid items to many more of Yarmouk's over 18,000 civilians. It is encouraging that order has been restored in the distribution process and that there has been a progressive daily rise in the number of civilians who have received UNRWA parcels over the past four days. The gravity and scale of civilian suffering and humanitarian needs inside Yarmouk remains a concern. Much more needs to be done by all concerned parties to allow UNRWA significantly to accelerate and expand its humanitarian action inside Yarmouk.

"UNRWA will maintain its advocacy for continuous, substantial and safe humanitarian access, and for the protection of Palestinian and Syrian civilians in Yarmouk and across Syria."

10 July 2014

"UNRWA's food distribution inside Yarmouk continued for a fourth consecutive day since it resumed following a long break. In four and a half hours, the UNRWA team today delivered food parcels, hummus, jam, vitamin supplements, re-hydration salts, lice and scabies treatments to 509 civilian families in Yarmouk.

"The UNRWA team arrived at the northern Bateekhah entrance of Yarmouk at 10:40 hrs and commenced its work at 11:45 hrs at the distribution point adjacent to Rama Street inside Yarmouk. The distribution proceeded in an organized and orderly manner until its completion at 16:30 hrs.

"The support and facilitation of Syrian authorities remains essential to sustaining UNRWA's food distribution and to extending the availability of food and other aid items to many more of Yarmouk's over 18,000 civilians. It is encouraging that order has been restored in the distribution process and that there has been a progressive daily rise in the number of civilians who have received UNRWA parcels over the past four days. Considering the gravity and scale of civilian suffering and humanitarian needs inside Yarmouk, much more needs to be done by all concerned parties to allow UNRWA significantly to accelerate and expand its humanitarian action inside Yarmouk.

"UNRWA will maintain its advocacy for continuous, substantial and safe humanitarian access, and for the protection of Palestinian and Syrian civilians in Yarmouk and across Syria."

7 July 2014

"There were dramatic and chaotic scenes today as UNRWA distributed food in the besieged Palestinian refugee camp of Yarmouk in Damascus for the first time in six weeks. We were authorized to resume food distributions following an interruption stretching back to 23 May. In about two hours of action, an UNRWA team delivered food parcels, bread, jam and vitamin supplements to 209 civilian families in Yarmouk.

"The UNRWA team arrived at the northern Bateekhah entrance of Yarmouk at 11:00 hrs but was held up on account of security concerns. As the team waited at the Bateekha entrance in the north of Yarmouk, gunfire inside the camp reportedly resulted in non-life threatening injuries to two civilians. The team eventually commenced its work at 14:30 hrs at the distribution point adjacent to Rama Street inside Yarmouk.

"The distribution initially proceeded in an organized manner in spite of the large crowds of expectant civilians surging forward in the hope of receiving food assistance. The flood of people quickly became overwhelming, bringing an end to the distribution effort at 16:30 hrs. The UNRWA team persisted in the hope that order would be restored allowing more civilian families to receive help. However after making a further unsuccessful distribution attempt at 17:00 hrs, the UNRWA team withdrew, having received assurances that food distribution will continue on 8 July 2014.

"UNRWA welcomes the resumption of its food distribution inside Yarmouk. With the support and facilitation of Syrian authorities, we hope that the distribution of UNRWA food parcels will in future experience no further interruptions. This will ensure that in every working day of distributions, a significantly higher number of Yarmouk's civilians can receive the food and nutrition they desperately need so that their suffering can be alleviated.

"UNRWA as always stands ready to implement a rapid humanitarian programme to respond to the immediate and longer term needs of the civilians of Yarmouk.

"UNRWA will maintain its advocacy for continuous, substantial and safe humanitarian access to Yarmouk, and for the protection of Palestinian and Syrian civilians."

6 July 2014

"Since 23 May 2014, there has been no distribution of UNRWA food parcels to civilians in Yarmouk. UNRWA distribution of hygiene kits in Yarmouk last took place on 7 June 2014. UNRWA views with growing alarm the continuing absence of authorization to resume the distribution of food and other humanitarian assistance inside Yarmouk. It is distressing to consider the likelihood that this protracted break in UNRWA food distribution may be contributing to hunger and malnutrition among Yarmouk’s civilians.

"UNRWA is urgently seeking a resumption of its food distribution and other humanitarian activities inside Yarmouk, and is strongly renewing its appeals to Syrian authorities and other concerned parties immediately to make this resumption possible. The suffering of civilians in Yarmouk should not be further prolonged. UNRWA as always stands ready to implement a rapid humanitarian programme to address the immediate and longer term needs of the civilians of Yarmouk.

"UNRWA will maintain its advocacy for continuous, substantial and safe humanitarian access to Yarmouk, and for the protection of Palestinian and Syrian civilians."

5 July 2014

"UNRWA's distribution of food to civilian families in Yarmouk last took place on 23 May 2014. The most recent UNRWA distribution of hygiene kits was on 7 June 2014. This lengthy break in food distribution is of great concern to UNRWA as it raises the likelihood of civilians going hungry in Yarmouk.

"Civilian residents of Yarmouk continue to contend with grave humanitarian conditions. UNRWA is urgently to seek a resumption of its humanitarian activities inside Yarmouk and is appealing to the parties to the 21 June agreement to make this resumption possible. The Agency stands ready to implement a rapid humanitarian response to address the immediate and longer term needs of the civilians of Yarmouk."

5 July 2014

“There was no UNRWA aid to Yarmouk again yesterday. The days have turned into weeks the weeks are turning into months. We have been transformed into silent witnesses to a human catastrophe in Yarmouk.”

4 July 2014

"UNRWA will maintain its advocacy for continuous, substantial and safe humanitarian access to Yarmouk, and for the protection of Palestinian and Syrian civilians."

3 July 2014

"UNRWA is extremely concerned that its distribution of food to civilian families in Yarmouk last took place on 23 May 2014. The most recent UNRWA distribution of hygiene kits was on 7 June 2014. Civilian residents of Yarmouk continue to contend with grave conditions as their basic humanitarian needs and the requirements of humanitarian access remain unmet. UNRWA continues urgently to seek a resumption of its humanitarian activities inside Yarmouk and is appealing to the parties to the 21 June agreement to make this resumption possible. The Agency stands ready to implement a rapid humanitarian response to address the immediate and longer term needs of the civilians of Yarmouk.

"UNRWA will continue to advocate for continuous, substantial and safe humanitarian access to Yarmouk, and for the protection of Palestinian and Syrian civilians."

1 July 2014

30 June 2014

"UNRWA will continue to advocate for continuous, substantial and safe humanitarian access to Yarmouk, and for the protection of Palestinian and Syrian civilians."

27 June 2014

"There were no UNRWA operations inside Yarmouk today 27th June. Following reports of a 21 June agreement between Syrian authorities and armed opposition groups inside Yarmouk, UNRWA is urgently seeking the resumption and expansion of its humanitarian activities inside Yarmouk, where humanitarian conditions remain dire for the 18,000 civilians trapped there. UNRWA stands ready to implement a rapid humanitarian response so that the immediate and longer term needs of the civilians of Yarmouk can be met.

"UNRWA will continue to advocate for continuous, substantial and safe humanitarian access to Yarmouk, and to ensure the protection of Palestinian civilians."

26 June 2014

"There were no UNRWA operations inside Yarmouk today 26th June. Following reports of a 21 June agreement between Syrian authorities and armed opposition groups inside Yarmouk, UNRWA is urgently seeking the resumption and expansion of its humanitarian activities inside Yarmouk, where humanitarian conditions remain dire for the 18,000 civilians trapped there. UNRWA stands ready to implement a rapid humanitarian response so that the immediate and longer term needs of Yarmouk’s civilian population can be met.

"UNRWA will continue to advocate for continuous, substantial and safe humanitarian access to Yarmouk, and to ensure the protection of Palestinian and Syrian civilians."

25 June 2014

"There were no UNRWA operations inside Yarmouk today 25th June. Following reports of a 21 June agreement between Syrian authorities and armed opposition groups inside Yarmouk, UNRWA is urgently seeking the resumption and expansion of its humanitarian activities inside Yarmouk, where humanitarian conditions remain dire for the 18,000 civilians trapped there. UNRWA stands ready to implement a rapid humanitarian response so that the immediate and longer term needs of Yarmouk’s civilian population can be met.

"UNRWA will continue to advocate for continuous, substantial and safe humanitarian access to Yarmouk, and to ensure the protection of Palestinian and Syrian civilians."

24 June 2014

"There were no UNRWA operations inside Yarmouk on 24th June. Following reports of a 21 June agreement between Syrian authorities and armed opposition groups inside Yarmouk, UNRWA is urgently seeking the resumption and expansion of its humanitarian activities inside Yarmouk, where humanitarian conditions remain dire. UNRWA stands ready to implement a rapid humanitarian response so that the immediate and longer term needs of Yarmouk’s civilian population can be met.

"UNRWA will continue to advocate for continuous, substantial and safe humanitarian access to Yarmouk, and to ensure the protection of Palestinian and Syrian civilians."

23 June 2014

"There were no UNRWA operations inside Yarmouk today 23rd June. Following yesterday's report of the signature of an agreement between Syrian authorities and armed opposition groups inside Yarmouk, UNRWA stands ready to resume its humanitarian activities and expand its offer of assistance to the civilians of Yarmouk, as soon as safe and full access is granted to the Agency.

"UNRWA is urgently seeking the immediate resumption and expansion of its humanitarian activities inside Yarmouk to enable it to offer a full range of humanitarian supplies, services and programmes to the civilians of Yarmouk. UNRWA stands ready to implement a rapid humanitarian response so that the immediate and longer term needs of Yarmouk’s civilian population can be met.

"UNRWA will continue to advocate for continuous, substantial and safe humanitarian access to Yarmouk, and to ensure the protection of Palestinian and Syrian civilians."

22 June 2014

"UNRWA has received credible information about an agreement signed between Syrian authorities and armed opposition groups inside Yarmouk. We would welcome any durable and binding agreement that achieves a cessation of hostilities, full humanitarian access and an end to the suffering of civilian in Yarmouk and all of Syria.

"In particular, UNRWA is urgently seeking the immediate resumption and expansion of its humanitarian activities inside Yarmouk to enable it to offer a full range of humanitarian supplies, services and programmes to the civilians of Yarmouk. UNRWA stands ready to implement a rapid humanitarian response so that the immediate and longer term needs of Yarmouk’s civilian population can be met.

"UNRWA will continue to advocate for continuous, substantial and safe humanitarian access to Yarmouk, and to ensure the protection of Palestinian and Syrian civilians."

21 June 2014

"No UNRWA distribution of humanitarian assistance was carried out in the Palestinian refugee camp of Yarmouk in Damascus today, so it is now exactly two weeks since we had access to some 18,000 civilians trapped there in desperate conditions. The UNRWA team did not proceed to Yarmouk as the usual arrangements for UNRWA distribution had not been reinstated.

"UNRWA is continuing to press for a resumption of UNRWA distribution as a matter of great urgency. UNRWA will continue to advocate for continuous, substantial and safe humanitarian access to Yarmouk, and stands ready to provide a wider range of assistance to civilians there."

20 June 2014

"No UNRWA distribution of humanitarian assistance was carried out in Yarmouk on 20 June. The UNRWA team did not proceed to Yarmouk as the usual arrangements for UNRWA distribution had not been reinstated. This is the thirteenth consecutive day that UNRWA is unable to carry out any distribution inside Yarmouk. Since May 14th, and owing to interruptions in food distribution, only 350 UNRWA food parcels have been delivered inside Yarmouk, where over 18,000 civilians of Yarmouk remain trapped in desperate conditions.

"The Agency urges all concerned parties to restore UNRWA's daily distributions of food and other humanitarian assistance to help address what remains a dire humanitarian crisis for the civilians of Yarmouk. UNRWA will continue to advocate for continuous, substantial and safe humanitarian access to Yarmouk, and stands ready to provide a wider range of assistance to civilians there."

19 June 2014

"No UNRWA distribution of humanitarian assistance was carried out in Yarmouk on 19 June, following continued clashes and shelling in and around Yarmouk overnight. This is the twelfth consecutive day that UNRWA is unable to carry out any distribution inside Yarmouk.

"UNRWA is gravely concerned that armed hostilities continue to disrupt critical humanitarian operations in Yarmouk, particularly UNRWA's food distributions. Since May 14th, and owing to interruptions in food distribution, only 350 UNRWA food parcels have been delivered inside Yarmouk, where over 18,000 civilians of Yarmouk remain trapped in desperate conditions.

18 June 2014

"No UNRWA distribution of humanitarian assistance was carried out in Yarmouk on 18 June, following sporadic clashes and shelling in and around Yarmouk overnight. This is the eleventh consecutive day that UNRWA is unable to carry out any distribution inside Yarmouk, further worsening the desperate humanitarian situation of the 18,000 civilians trapped there.

"Meanwhile, with the facilitation of Syrian authorities, UNRWA arranged for the return to Yarmouk of 21 baccalaureate students after they completed their State exams in Damascus. UNRWA supported the students during their residence at UNRWA's Palestine School and the Sa'id Al'as Centre run by the Syrian Government Department of Palestine Refugee Affairs, GAPAR, providing them with various amenities, hygiene kits and a small cash stipend.

"UNRWA is deeply concerned that armed hostilities continue to disrupt critical humanitarian operations in Yarmouk. The Agency urges all concerned parties to restore UNRWA's daily distributions of food and other humanitarian assistance to help address what remains a dire humanitarian crisis for the civilians of Yarmouk. UNRWA will continue to advocate for continuous, substantial and safe humanitarian access to Yarmouk, and stands ready to provide a wider range of assistance to civilians there."

17 June 2014

"No UNRWA distribution of humanitarian assistance was carried out in Yarmouk on 17 June. The UNRWA team did not proceed with the mission as the security situation in Yarmouk did not allow for humanitarian operations to take place following clashes overnight.

"UNRWA is concerned that this latest break in its Yarmouk distribution has extended to a tenth day. The Agency demands that armed hostilities cease and urges all concerned parties to restore daily distribution of humanitarian assistance to help address what remains a dire humanitarian crisis facing civilians in Yarmouk. UNRWA is concerned by the plight of the estimated 18,000 civilians trapped in Yarmouk and continues to advocate for continuous, substantial and safe humanitarian distributions to civilians there."

16 June 2014

"No UNRWA distribution of humanitarian assistance was carried out in Yarmouk on 16 June. The UNRWA team did not proceed to Yarmouk as the usual arrangements for UNRWA distribution had not been reinstated.

"UNRWA is concerned that this latest break in its Yarmouk distribution has extended to a ninth day. The Agency is pressing all concerned parties to restore daily distribution of humanitarian assistance to help address what remains a dire humanitarian crisis facing civilians in Yarmouk. UNRWA is concerned by the plight of the estimated 18,000 civilians trapped in Yarmouk and will continue to advocate for continuous, substantial and safe humanitarian distributions to civilians there."

15 June 2014

"No UNRWA distribution of humanitarian assistance was carried out in Yarmouk on 15 June. The UNRWA team did not proceed to Yarmouk as the usual arrangements for UNRWA distribution had not been reinstated.

"UNRWA is concerned that this latest break in its Yarmouk distribution has extended to an eighth day. The Agency is pressing all concerned parties to restore daily distribution of humanitarian assistance to help address what remains a dire humanitarian crisis facing civilians in Yarmouk. UNRWA is concerned by the plight of the estimated 18,000 civilians trapped in Yarmouk and will continue to advocate for continuous, substantial and safe humanitarian distributions to civilians there."

14 June 2014

"No UNRWA distribution of humanitarian assistance was carried out in Yarmouk on 14 June. The UNRWA team did not proceed to Yarmouk as the usual arrangements for UNRWA distribution had not been reinstated.

"UNRWA is concerned that this latest break in its Yarmouk distribution has extended to a seventh day. The Agency is pressing all concerned parties to restore daily distribution of humanitarian assistance to help address what remains a dire humanitarian crisis facing civilians in Yarmouk. UNRWA is concerned by the plight of the estimated 18,000 civilians trapped in Yarmouk and will continue to advocate for continuous, substantial and safe humanitarian distributions to civilians there."

12 June 2014

"No UNRWA distribution of humanitarian assistance was carried out in Yarmouk on 12 June. The UNRWA team did not proceed to Yarmouk as the usual arrangements for UNRWA distribution had not been reinstated.

"UNRWA is concerned that this latest break in its Yarmouk distribution has extended to a fifth day. The Agency is pressing all concerned parties to restore daily distribution of humanitarian assistance to help address what remains a dire humanitarian crisis facing civilians in Yarmouk. UNRWA is concerned by the plight of the estimated 18,000 civilians trapped in Yarmouk and will continue to advocate for continuous, substantial and safe humanitarian distributions to civilians there."

11 June 2014

"No UNRWA distribution of humanitarian assistance was carried out in Yarmouk on 11 June. The UNRWA team did not proceed to Yarmouk as the usual arrangements for UNRWA distribution had not been reinstated.

"UNRWA is concerned that this latest break in its Yarmouk distribution has extended to a fourth day. The Agency is pressing all concerned parties to restore daily distribution of humanitarian assistance to help address what remains a dire humanitarian crisis facing civilians in Yarmouk. UNRWA is concerned by the plight of the estimated 18,000 civilians trapped in Yarmouk and will continue to advocate for continuous, substantial and safe humanitarian distributions to civilians there."

6 June 2014

"There was no UNRWA distribution of humanitarian assistance in Yarmouk on 6 June, the fourth consecutive day without distributions, following confirmation from the authorities that operations would be suspended during the election period.

"While noting the authorities' advice that distribution of humanitarian assistance in Yarmouk is likely to be affected by national events over the coming few days, UNRWA is requesting that its humanitarian activities must resume as soon as possible. All concerned parties must be committed to ensuring continuous, substantial and safe humanitarian access to Yarmouk."

5 June 2014

"There was no UNRWA distribution of humanitarian assistance in Yarmouk today for the fourth consecutive day, following confirmation from the authorities that operations would be suspended during the election period.

4 June 2014

"There was no UNRWA distribution of humanitarian assistance in Yarmouk today, the third consecutive day without distributions, following confirmation from the authorities that operations would be suspended during the election period.

3 June 2014

"Syrian Authorities suspend UN humanitarian work in Yarmouk due to presidential elections

"There was no UNRWA distribution of humanitarian assistance in the Palestinian refugee camp of Yarmouk, Damascus today, following confirmation from the authorities that operations would be suspended during the election period.

31 May 2014

"UNRWA was cleared to distribute hygiene kits to 453 civilian families in the Palestinian refugee camp of Yarmouk, Damascus today. Each hygiene kit contains soaps, towels, toothpaste, detergents, shampoos and other items to promote personal hygiene. UNRWA was also cleared to distribute limited supplies of halawa, rehydration salts, vitamins and treatments for scabies and lice infestation. The ninth-grade students who left Yarmouk on 19 May safely returned following completion of their examinations in Damascus City.

"The UNRWA team arrived at the Bateekhah northern entrance at 09:30 and commenced distribution at 10:30. The distribution proceeded in an orderly manner until 15:45, when the authorities signaled an end to the process."

"UNRWA acknowledges the facilitation of Syrian authorities in today's distribution. UNRWA hopes that the recent authorisation to distribute non-food items will be expanded to include critical medicines and medical supplies to civilians in Yarmouk. UNRWA will continue to advocate for continuous, substantial and safe humanitarian distributions to over 18,000 civilians remaining in Yarmouk."

29 May 2014

"UNRWA was unable to carry out any distributions in the Palestinian refugee camp of Yarmouk, Damascus on 29 May because no beneficiaries turned up at the usual distribution point to receive aid. In accordance with previous arrangements, the UNRWA team arrived at the Bateekhah northern entrance of Yarmouk at 10:30 prepared to continue the distribution of hygiene kits. However UNRWA was informed by the authorities that no distribution was possible as no Yarmouk civilians were present at the distribution point where they normally gather. UNRWA was not in a position to ascertain the cause of this situation. The UNRWA team departed Bateekhah at 13:25 when it became clear that distribution would not proceed.

"UNRWA is concerned about this interruption of its operations in Yarmouk and notes that frequent stoppages further exacerbate the plight of the estimated 18,000 civilians trapped in Yarmouk. The Agency urges all concerned parties to allow the civilians of Yarmouk to access the humanitarian assistance they desperately need. To do so, continuous, substantial and safe humanitarian access to Yarmouk must be indefinitely ensured. UNRWA will continue advocating for this."

28 May 2014

"UNRWA was cleared to distribute hygiene kits to 502 civilian families in Yarmouk today. Each hygiene kit contains bath soaps, towels, toothpaste, detergents for utensils and laundry, shampoos, and other items to promote personal hygiene. UNRWA was also cleared to distribute limited supplies of infant formula, halawa, rehydration salts, vitamins, and treatments for scabies and lice infestation.

"The UNRWA team arrived at the Bateekhah northern entrance at 10:20 and commenced distribution at 11:40. The distribution operation proceeded in an orderly manner until 16:30, when the authorities signaled an end to the distribution.

"UNRWA acknowledges the facilitation of Syrian authorities in making today’s distribution possible, and appreciates the fact that it was able to continue the distribution of much-needed hygiene items to the residents of Yarmouk. UNRWA hopes that this encouraging progress will be followed by authorisation to deliver critical medicines and medical supplies for civilian use in Yarmouk.

"Continuous, substantial and safe humanitarian access to Yarmouk must be indefinitely ensured for the sake of over 18,000 civilians trapped there. UNRWA will continue advocating for this."

27 May 2014

"There was no UNRWA distribution in Yarmouk on May 27 following distribution of hygiene kits to 1,853 families over the previous three-day period. UNRWA understands that this break is for one day only and is required to strengthen logistical arrangements at the distribution area.

"UNRWA urges all concerned parties to allow for continuous, safe and expanded humanitarian access to be indefinitely ensured, and facilitate the Agency's operations to alleviate the plight of the over 18,000 civilians trapped in Yarmouk."

26 May 2014

"UNRWA was cleared to distribute hygiene kits to 503 civilian families in Yarmouk today. Each hygiene kit contains bath soaps, towels, toothpaste, detergents for utensils and laundry, shampoos, and other items to promote personal hygiene. UNRWA was also cleared to continue the distribution of halawa, rehydration salts, vitamins, and treatments for scabies and lice infestation.

"The UNRWA team arrived at the Bateekhah northern entrance at 11:00 and commenced distribution at 12:00. The distribution operation proceeded in an orderly manner until 16:00, when the authorities signaled an end to the distribution.

"Continuous, substantial and safe humanitarian access to Yarmouk must be indefinitely ensured for the sake of over 18,000 civilians trapped there. UNRWA will continue advocating for this. "

25 May 2014

"UNRWA distributed hygiene kits to 660 civilian families in Yarmouk today, the third day of distribution following a nine-day period during which no UNRWA distribution was authorised. Each hygiene kit contains bath soaps, towels, toothpaste, detergents for utensils and laundry, shampoos, and other items to promote personal hygiene.

"The UNRWA team arrived at the Bateekhah northern entrance at 10.30 and commenced distribution at 11:30. Along with hygiene kits, UNRWA was also cleared to distribute halawa, rehydration salts, vitamins, and treatments for scabies and lice infestation. The distribution operation proceeded in an orderly manner until 17.00, when the authorities signaled an end to the distribution.

"UNRWA acknowledges the facilitation of Syrian authorities in making today’s distribution possible, and appreciates the fact that it was able to continue the distribution of much-needed hygiene kits to the residents of Yarmouk. UNRWA hopes that this encouraging progress will be followed by authorisation to deliver medicines and medical supplies for civilian use in Yarmouk.

"UNRWA remains concerned about the desperate humanitarian situation of the over 18,000 civilians trapped in Yarmouk and repeats its appeal for continuous, substantial and safe humanitarian access to be indefinitely ensured."

24 May 2014

UNRWA expands humanitarian distribution in Yarmouk, Damascus

"UNRWA distributed hygiene kits to 690 civilian families in Yarmouk today, the second day of distribution following a nine-day period during which no UNRWA distribution was authorised. It was the first time that UNRWA was allowed to distribute hygiene kits in Yarmouk since distribution operations began in mid-January 2014. Each hygiene kit contains bath soaps, towels, toothpaste, detergents for utensils and laundry, shampoos, and other items to promote personal hygiene.

"The UNRWA team arrived at the Bateekhah northern entrance at 10.30 and commenced distribution at 11:15. Along with hygiene kits, UNRWA was also cleared to distribute halawa, rehydration salts, vitamins, and treatments for scabies and lice infestation. The distribution operation proceeded in an orderly manner until 16.00, when it was halted following unconfirmed reports of armed clashes to the east of Yarmouk.

"UNRWA acknowledges the facilitation of Syrian authorities in making today’s distribution possible, and appreciates the fact that it was able to distribute much-needed hygiene kits to the residents of Yarmouk for the first time. This is a welcome and encouraging indication that the authorities recognize the value of allowing UNRWA to address in Yarmouk a wider range of humanitarian needs beside food.

"UNRWA hopes that this positive development will be sustained and will be followed by authorisation to deliver medicines and medical supplies for civilian use in Yarmouk.

23 May 2014

UNRWA resumes food distributions in Yarmouk, Damascus

"UNRWA distributed food parcels to 350 civilian families in Yarmouk today following a period of nine days during which no UNRWA distribution was authorised. The UNRWA team arrived at the Bateekhah northern entrance at 10.10 and was permitted to enter Yarmouk and begin distribution at 11:00. UNRWA was also allowed to distribute soap, vitamins, lice and scabies medicines along with the food parcels. The distribution operation proceeded in an orderly manner until 14.00, when UNRWA completed its distribution process.

"UNRWA acknowledges the facilitation of Syrian authorities in making today’s distribution possible. UNRWA continues to make repeated appeals for a wider range of humanitarian assistance, including medical supplies and hygiene kits, to be authorised for distribution in Yarmouk. UNRWA hopes that these appeals will be heeded, and that the arrangements on the ground will allow the Agency to consistently reach more significant numbers of civilians in need.

"UNRWA remains deeply concerned about the desperate humanitarian situation of the estimated 18,000 civilians trapped in Yarmouk and continues to demand that continuous, substantial and safe humanitarian access be indefinitely ensured."

22 May 2014

"No UNRWA distribution of food parcels to civilians in Yarmouk has been possible since 13 May, following a serious security incident within the area in which UNRWA conducts distribution operations. This is the ninth consecutive day that UNRWA is unable to distribute food assistance inside Yarmouk. Reports of relief items being distributed in Yarmouk since May 17th do not relate to UNRWA's operations. The Agency continues to seek permission from the authorities to immediately resume food distributions in Yarmouk. UNRWA remains concerned with the desperate humanitarian situation of the residents of Yarmouk, and demands that continuous, substantial and safe humanitarian access is ensured."

20 May 2014

"There were no UNRWA food distributions in the Palestinian refugee camp of Yarmouk, Damascus today, making it a week since our last distributions. The suspension of operations followed a serious security incident within the area in which UNRWA conducts distributions. Reports of relief items being distributed in Yarmouk since May 13th do not relate to UNRWA's operations. The Agency is urgently seeking permission from the authorities to resume its food distribution operations in Yarmouk as soon as possible. UNRWA estimates that it has met no more than 25% of the minimum food needs of civilians in Yarmouk since first accessing the area in January.

"UNRWA remains deeply concerned about the desperate humanitarian situation in Yarmouk and will continue to press for continuous, substantial and safe humanitarian access to deliver the food and other humanitarian supplies that the civilians of Yarmouk need."

19 May 2014

"There were no food distributions in the Palestinian refugee camp of Yarmouk in Damascus today. No UNRWA distribution of food parcels to civilians in Yarmouk has been possible since 13 May, when two government military personnel were shot within the area in which UNRWA conducts distribution operations. This is the sixth consecutive day that UNRWA is unable to distribute food assistance inside Yarmouk. Reports of relief items being distributed in Yarmouk since May 13th do not relate to UNRWA's operations. The Agency is urgently seeking permission from the authorities to resume its food distribution operations in Yarmouk as soon as possible.

18 May 2014

"There were no UNRWA food distributions today in Yarmouk. No UNRWA distribution of food parcels to civilians in Yarmouk has been possible since 13 May, when two government military personnel were shot within the area in which UNRWA conducts distribution operations. This is the fifth consecutive day that UNRWA is unable to distribute food assistance inside Yarmouk. UNRWA is urgently seeking permission from the authorities to resume its food distribution operations in Yarmouk as soon as possible.

18 May 2014

"120 Palestine students have left Yarmouk, the besieged refugee camp in Damascus, in order to take public exams. UNRWA arranged for the students temporarily to leave Yarmouk to enable them to participate in nation-wide State exams for ninth graders, which are due to begin on May 18th. The move was completed with the facilitation of the Syrian Authorities.

"The students from Yarmouk are being accommodated at UNRWA's Palestine School and at the facility fun by the Syrian Government Department, GAPAR's Sa'id Al'as Centre and will be fully catered for by UNRWA during their stay. UNRWA has already provided each student with basic amenities, including hygiene kits, and a small cash stipend.

"However, the situation the students left remains dire. There have been no UNRWA distribution of food parcels to civilians in Yarmouk since 13 May, when two government military personnel were shot within the area in which UNRWA conducts distribution operations. We are urgently seeking permission from the authorities to resume its food distribution operations in Yarmouk as soon as possible.

"We are deeply concerned that recourse to armed force in Yarmouk continues to disrupt efforts to alleviate the plight of approximately 18,000 trapped civilians. According to our estimates, no more than 25% of the minimum food needs of civilians in Yarmouk have been met since we first had access to the area in January. We continue to have strong concerns about the well-being of civilians in Yarmouk. We maintain our urgent appeals for continuous, substantial and safe humanitarian access to Yarmouk."

16 May 2014

"There were no UNRWA food distributions in the Palestinian refugee camp of Yarmouk in Damascus today. No food parcels have been distributed in Yarmouk since 13 May, when two government military personnel were shot within the area in which UNRWA conducts distribution operations. UNRWA is closely monitoring the situation in Yarmouk and consulting with the authorities with a view to resuming the safe distribution of food as soon as possible.

"UNRWA remains deeply concerned that recourse to armed force in Yarmouk has once again disrupted its efforts to alleviate the plight of over 18,000 trapped civilians. While progress in food distribution had been encouraging in the days prior to 13 May, UNRWA's efforts are dwarfed by the sheer scale of the needs of Yarmouk's civilians. UNRWA will continue to press for sustained conditions of safety and calm that will allow its staff continuously to deliver the significant amounts of food and other humanitarian supplies that the 18,000 civilians of Yarmouk need.

"To ensure that continuous, substantial and safe humanitarian access is indefinitely ensured, UNRWA demands that hostilities cease and that the differences underlying the armed conflict in Yarmouk and elsewhere in Syria be resolved exclusively by peaceful means."

15 May 2014

"There was no distribution today of UNRWA food parcels to civilians in the Palestinian refugee camp of Yarmouk in Damascus. Distributions have not been possible since 13 May, when two government military personnel were shot within the area in which UNRWA conducts distribution operations. One of the personnel was killed and the other critically injured. UNRWA is closely monitoring the situation in Yarmouk and consulting with the authorities with a view to resuming the safe distribution of food as soon as possible.

15 May 2014

"UNRWA condemns security incident in Yarmouk which interrupts food distributions

"UNRWA was not able to distribute food parcels in the Palestinian refugee camp of Yarmouk, Damascus on 14 May, due to a serious security incident on 13 May, in which two government military personnel were shot within the area that UNRWA carries out its humanitarian work. One was killed and the other critically injured.

"UNRWA condemns this incident in an area well-known to be used by UNRWA staff and other humanitarian personnel engaged in humanitarian operations, which has interrupted the safe distribution of food to civilians. UNRWA remains deeply concerned that recourse to armed force in Yarmouk repeatedly disrupts efforts to alleviate the plight of approximately 18,000 trapped civilians. While progress in food distribution had been encouraging in the days prior to13 May, UNRWA estimates that it has met no more than 25% of the minimum food needs of civilians in Yarmouk since first accessing the area in January.

12 May 2014

"UNRWA distributed food parcels to 412 civilian families in Yarmouk today, the fourth day of distribution after clashes on 8 May prevented access to the area. The UNRWA team arrived at the Bateekhah northern entrance to Yarmouk at 09:50 and was permitted to commence distribution inside Yarmouk at 11:05. The operation continued in an orderly manner until 14:20, when the authorities signalled an end to distribution.

"UNRWA expresses gratitude to the Syrian authorities for facilitating today's distribution in Yarmouk. In order to address the desperate humanitarian situation of over 18,000 trapped civilians, this encouraging pace of food distribution must rise in the coming days. UNRWA reiterates its appeal to concerned parties to authorise the distribution of an expanded range of humanitarian assistance, particularly medicines, medical supplies and hygiene kits.

"To ensure that continuous, substantial and safe humanitarian access is indefinitely ensured, UNRWA demands that all parties cease hostilities and seek to resolve their differences exclusively by peaceful means."

11 May 2014

"UNRWA distributed food parcels to 408 civilian families in Yarmouk on 11 May, the third day of distribution after clashes on 8 May prevented access to the area. The UNRWA team arrived at the Bateekhah northern entrance to Yarmouk at 11:00 and was permitted to commence distribution inside Yarmouk at 11:50. The operation continued in an orderly manner until 15:45, when the authorities signalled an end to distribution.

10 May 2014

"UNRWA distributed food parcels to 429 civilian families in Yarmouk on 10 May, the second day of distribution after clashes on 8 May prevented access to the area. The UNRWA team arrived at the Bateekhah northern entrance to Yarmouk at 10:10 and was permitted to commence distribution inside Yarmouk at 11:25. Despite sounds of sporadic gunfire in the vicinity of the distribution area, the operation continued in an orderly manner until 15:30, when the authorities signalled an end to distribution.

9 May 2014

"UNRWA distributed food parcels to 407 civilian families in Yarmouk today, after clashes yesterday prevented access to the area. The UNRWA team arrived at the Bateekhah northern entrance to Yarmouk at 09:00 and was permitted to commence distribution inside Yarmouk at 10:40. The operation continued in an orderly manner until 15:40, when the authorities signalled an end to distribution.

8 May 2014

"UNRWA was not able to distribute food parcels in Yarmouk on 8 May, due to renewed armed clashes in the area. The UNRWA team arrived at the Bateekhah northern entrance at 10:20 as clashes were taking place inside Yarmouk, close to the distribution area. On request of the authorities, the UNRWA team departed the area at 10:45, returning safely to the UNRWA Office.

"UNRWA is deeply concerned that, after eight days of distribution, armed conflict has once again interrupted humanitarian operations in Yarmouk. For the sake of over 18,000 trapped civilians in the area, UNRWA reiterates its demand that all parties cease hostilities and work to ensure the immediate resumption and expansion of desperately needed humanitarian distributions inside Yarmouk.

7 May 2014

"UNRWA distributed food parcels to 465 civilian families in Yarmouk on 7 May, a significant increase in output from recent days. The UNRWA team arrived at the Bateekhah northern entrance to Yarmouk at 09:30 and was permitted to commence distribution inside Yarmouk at 11:10. Despite sporadic gunfire in the vicinity of the distribution area, the operation continued in an orderly manner until 16:00, when the authorities signalled an end to distribution.

"UNRWA expresses gratitude to the Syrian authorities for facilitating the increase in the number of food parcels distributed in Yarmouk today. In order to address the desperate humanitarian situation for over 18,000 trapped civilians, this encouraging pace of food distribution must continue to rise in the coming days. UNRWA reiterates its appeal to concerned parties to authorise the distribution of an expanded range of humanitarian assistance, particularly medicines and medical supplies.

6 May 2014

"UNRWA distributed food parcels to 192 civilian families in Yarmouk on 6 May. The UNRWA team arrived at the Bateekhah northern entrance to Yarmouk at 10:20 and was permitted to commence distribution inside Yarmouk at 11:50. Distribution continued at a relatively slow pace until 14:45, when the authorities signaled an end to the process.

"UNRWA appreciates the fact that Syrian authorities continued to support and facilitate food distribution in Yarmouk in spite of the disruption experienced yesterday. Nevertheless, the humanitarian situation remains critical for over 18,000 trapped civilians. For their sake, all parties must make it possible for UNRWA to access Yarmouk on a daily basis and to distribute food to a significantly higher number of civilians than have been reached over recent days and weeks.

5 May 2014

"UNRWA distributed food parcels to only 162 civilian families in Yarmouk on 5 May. The UNRWA team arrived at the Bateekhah northern entrance to Yarmouk at 10:00 and was permitted to commence distribution inside Yarmouk at 12:00. Distribution continued at a relatively slow pace until 15:00, when two gunshots impacted the area of the northern Bateekhah entrance, close to UNRWA vehicles and support staff, injuring a civilian bystander. The UNRWA team immediately withdrew, returning safely to the UNRWA Syria Field Office.

"Today's incident highlights the ongoing risks faced by civilians and humanitarian personnel in Yarmouk and other contested areas. UNRWA reiterates its demand that all concerned parties allow UNRWA, safely and without interruption, to distribute substantial quantities of food and other humanitarian assistance inside Yarmouk. All sides must demonstrate commitment in addressing the grave humanitarian crisis endured by civilians inside Yarmouk. All parties are responsible for the protection of civilians and for ensuring that humanitarian personnel are able to work without hindrance or threat to their safety.

"UNRWA acknowledges the facilitation of the Syrian authorities in today's brief distribution. It remains a matter of serious concern that UNRWA's food distribution continues to be frequently delayed or interrupted. Over the last three days, the number of civilian families who have received food parcels is extremely low when compared to the thousands of families in urgent need of UNRWA humanitarian assistance, due to the closed status of Yarmouk.

"UNRWA has appealed to the Syrian authorities to expand their support in facilitating regular, substantial, safe UNRWA food distributions in Yarmouk and to authorise the distribution of a full range of humanitarian assistance, particularly medicines and medical supplies.

"To ensure that humanitarian imperatives and obligations are fulfilled in Yarmouk, in other Palestinian communities and across Syria, all sides must cease hostilities and seek to resolve their differences exclusively by peaceful means."

4 May 2014

"UNRWA distributed food parcels to only 180 civilian families in Yarmouk on 4 May. The UNRWA team arrived at the Bateekhah northern entrance to Yarmouk at 09:30 and was permitted to commence distribution inside Yarmouk at 11:30. Despite the presence of crowds of desperate civilians, distribution continued until 14:30, when the authorities signaled an end to the process.

"UNRWA acknowledges the facilitation of the Syrian authorities in today's brief distribution. It remains a matter of serious concern that UNRWA's food distribution continues to be frequently delayed or interrupted. Over the last two days, the number of civilian families who have received food parcels is extremely low when compared to the thousands of families in urgent need of UNRWA humanitarian assistance, due to the closed status of Yarmouk .

"Syrian authorities and other concerned parties must work together to establish conditions that allow UNRWA, safely and without interruption, to distribute substantial quantities of food and other humanitarian assistance inside Yarmouk. All sides must demonstrate a more genuine commitment to addressing the grave humanitarian crisis endured by civilians inside Yarmouk.

3 May 2014

"UNRWA distributed food parcels to only 180 civilian families in Yarmouk on 3 May. The UNRWA team arrived at the Bateekhah northern entrance to Yarmouk at 09:10 and was permitted to commence distribution inside Yarmouk at 11:00. Distribution continued in an orderly manner until 13:00, when the authorities signalled a 90 minute pause. Distribution resumed at 14:30 and continued 15:30 when the authorities called an end to the process.

"UNRWA acknowledges with gratitude the facilitation of the Syrian authorities in today's brief distribution. However, UNRWA remains disturbed that food distributions to desperate civilians are subject to frequent interruptions and delays, without apparent justification. UNRWA hopes that the pace will accelerate and that there will be no further interruptions in the distribution of food to desperate civilians. UNRWA has appealed to the Syrian authorities to expand their support in facilitating regular, substantial, safe UNRWA food distributions in Yarmouk and to authorise the distribution of a full range of humanitarian assistance, particularly medicines and medical supplies.

"UNRWA remains deeply concerned about the desperate humanitarian situation in Yarmouk and the fact that frequent disruptions to its humanitarian efforts have left over 18,000 trapped civilians without adequate assistance. Since first distributing food in Yarmouk on 18 January, UNRWA estimates that the food delivered has met no more than 25% of the minimum requirements of the over 18,000 civilians in the area. To ensure that continuous, substantial and safe humanitarian access is indefinitely ensured, UNRWA demands that all parties cease hostilities and seek to resolve their differences exclusively by peaceful means."

2 May 2014

"UNRWA distributed food parcels to 560 civilian families in Yarmouk on 2 May. The UNRWA team arrived at the Bateekhah northern entrance to Yarmouk at 09:45 and was permitted to commence distribution inside Yarmouk at 10:20. Distribution continued in an orderly manner until 14:30, when the authorities signalled an end to the process.

1 May 2014

"UNRWA distributed food parcels to 375 civilian families in Yarmouk on 1 May. The UNRWA team arrived at the Bateekhah northern entrance to Yarmouk at 10:15 and was permitted to commence distribution inside Yarmouk at 11:00. Distribution continued in an orderly manner until 14:30, when the authorities signalled an end to the process.

"UNRWA acknowledges with gratitude the facilitation of the Syrian authorities in today's brief distribution. The Agency hopes that this opening, over the previous two days, will be sustained and expanded. However, UNRWA remains disturbed that food distributions to desperate civilians are subject to frequent interruptions, without apparent justification. UNRWA has appealed to the Syrian authorities to continue their support in facilitating regular, continuous UNRWA food distributions in Yarmouk and to authorise the distribution of an expanded range of humanitarian assistance, particularly medical items.

"UNRWA remains deeply concerned about the desperate humanitarian situation in Yarmouk and the fact that frequent disruptions to its humanitarian efforts have left over 18,000 trapped civilians increasingly desperate. Since first distributing food in Yarmouk on 18 January, UNRWA estimates that the food delivered has met no more than 25% of the minimum requirements of the over 18,000 civilians in the area. To ensure that continuous, substantial and safe humanitarian access is indefinitely ensured, UNRWA demands that all parties cease hostilities and seek to resolve their differences exclusively by peaceful means."

30 April 2014

"Yesterday, UNRWA distributed food parcels to 100 civilian families in the Yarmouk Palestinian refugee camp in Damascus, following two days of suspended access. We were granted authorisation to distribute at 15:00, with the UNRWA team arriving at the Bateekhah northern entrance to Yarmouk at 16:00. Distribution was permitted between 17:00 and 18:00, when the authorities signalled an end to the process.

"UNRWA has distributed food to only 1,762 families in Yarmouk during the entire month of April, during eight days of limited access to the area. An UNRWA food parcel last an average family just ten days and there are 18,000 people trapped inside Yarmouk. So our deliveries in April have been woefully inadequate. The risk of malnutrition spreading and disease breaking out on a significant scale is growing.

"Since first distributing food in Yarmouk on 18 January, UNRWA estimates that the supplies delivered have met no more than 25% of the minimum requirements of the population. We have appealed to the Syrian authorities to renew their support in facilitating regular, continuous UNRWA food distributions in Yarmouk and to authorise the distribution of an expanded range of humanitarian assistance, particularly medical items. UNRWA acknowledges with gratitude the facilitation of the Syrian authorities of these limited distributions. But we remain disturbed that food distributions to desperate civilians are subject to frequent interruptions, without apparent justification. Security Council resolution 2139 unanimously adopted on 22 February must be implemented fully. Operative paragraph of the resolution envisages "further action" in the case of non-compliance.

"UNRWA remains deeply concerned about the desperate humanitarian situation in Yarmouk and the fact that frequent disruptions to its humanitarian efforts have left over 18,000 trapped civilians increasingly desperate. To ensure that continuous, substantial and safe humanitarian access is indefinitely ensured, UNRWA demands that all parties cease hostilities and seek to resolve their differences exclusively by peaceful means."

28 April 2014

"UNRWA was not authorised to distribute food assistance in Yarmouk on 28 April, following distribution of food to 1,662 families over the previous four-day period. UNRWA has now been permitted to distribute inside Yarmouk on only seven days during April, for a few hours on each occasion. UNRWA finds it disturbing that food distribution to desperate civilians has been halted yet again, with no apparent justification for this latest interruption. UNRWA has appealed to the Syrian authorities to renew their support and facilitation in authorising the immediate resumption of UNRWA food distributions in Yarmouk.

"UNRWA requires continuous, daily and safe access to Yarmouk to meet the food needs of the civilian population. Since first distributing food in Yarmouk on 18 January, UNRWA estimates that, due to frequent interruptions, the food delivered has met no more than 25% of the minimum food requirements of the over 18,000 civilians in the area. UNRWA has not been authorised to distribute other essential assistance in Yarmouk, such as medicines and medical items. As a result, the critical health needs of the vulnerable civilian population are not being addressed.

"UNRWA remains deeply concerned about the desperate humanitarian situation in Yarmouk and the fact that frequent disruptions of its humanitarian efforts leave over 18,000 trapped civilians increasingly desperate. To ensure that continuous, substantial and safe humanitarian access is indefinitely ensured, UNRWA demands that all parties cease hostilities and seek to resolve their differences exclusively by peaceful means."

27 APRIL 2014

"UNRWA distributed food parcels to 466 civilian families in Yarmouk on 27 April, the fourth day of distribution following 15 days of suspended access. An UNRWA team arrived at the Bateekhah northern entrance at 09:30 and was permitted to enter Yarmouk and begin distribution at 10:50. Despite the presence of large crowds of desperate civilians at the entrance to the distribution area, the operation proceeded in an orderly manner until 15:15, when the authorities signaled an end to the distribution process. Since the unanimous adoption by the UN Security Council of resolution 2139 on 22nd February calling for full humanitarian access, UNRWA has distributed 6,045 food parcels in Yarmouk.

"UNRWA acknowledges with gratitude the facilitation of Syrian authorities in today’s distribution. The Agency hopes that this opening, over the previous four days, will be sustained and expanded. It is particularly vital that UNRWA is permitted to increase the duration and scale of distributions in Yarmouk on a continuous, daily basis. UNRWA urges all concerned parties to continue to facilitate and support UNRWA's operations and to permit an expanded range of humanitarian assistance, particularly medical supplies, to enter Yarmouk. UNRWA stands ready to distribute in Yarmouk throughout daylight hours, seven days per week.

"UNRWA remains deeply concerned about the desperate humanitarian situation in Yarmouk and the fact that frequent disruptions of its humanitarian efforts deepen the plight of over 18,000 trapped civilians. To ensure that continuous, substantial and safe humanitarian access is indefinitely ensured, UNRWA demands that all parties cease hostilities and seek to resolve their differences exclusively by peaceful means."

26 April 2014

"UNRWA distributed food parcels to 464 civilian families in the Palestinian refugee camp of Yarmouk in Damascus on 26 April, the third day of distribution following 15 days of suspended access. An UNRWA team arrived at the Bateekhah northern entrance at 09:30 and was permitted to enter Yarmouk and begin distribution at 10:00. Despite the presence of large crowds of desperate civilians at the entrance to the distribution area, the operation proceeded in an orderly manner until 15:15, when the authorities signaled an end to the distribution process. Since the unanimous adoption by the UN Security Council of resolution 2139 on 22nd February calling for full humanitarian access, UNRWA has distributed 5,579 food parcels in Yarmouk. This is not enough.

"UNRWA acknowledges with gratitude the facilitation of Syrian authorities in today’s distribution. The Agency hopes that this opening, over the previous three days, will be sustained and expanded. It is particularly vital that UNRWA is permitted to increase the duration and scale of distributions in Yarmouk on a continuous, daily basis. UNRWA urges all concerned parties to continue to facilitate and support UNRWA's operations and to permit an expanded range of humanitarian assistance, particularly medical supplies, to enter Yarmouk. UNRWA stands ready to distribute in Yarmouk throughout daylight hours, seven days per week.

"UNRWA remains deeply concerned about the desperate humanitarian situation in Yarmouk and the fact that frequent disruptions of its humanitarian efforts deepen the plight of over 18,000 trapped civilians. To ensure that continuous, substantial and safe humanitarian access is indefinitely ensured, UNRWA demands that all parties cease hostilities and seek to resolve their differences exclusively by peaceful means."

25 April 2014

"UNRWA distributed food parcels to 432 civilian families in the Palestinian refugee camp of Yarmouk on 25 April, the second day of distribution following 15 days of suspended access. An UNRWA team arrived at the Bateekhah northern entrance at 10:00 and was permitted to enter Yarmouk and begin distribution at 10:30. Despite the presence of large crowds of desperate civilians, the operation proceeded in an orderly manner until 15:30, when the authorities signaled an end to the distribution process. Since the unanimous adoption by the UN Security Council of resolution 2139 on 22nd February calling for full humanitarian access, UNRWA has distributed 5,115 food parcels in Yarmouk. This is not enough. .

"UNRWA acknowledges with gratitude the facilitation of Syrian authorities in today’s distribution. The Agency hopes that this opening, over the previous two days, will be sustained and expanded. It is vital that UNRWA is permitted to increase the duration and scale of distributions in Yarmouk on a continuous, daily basis. UNRWA urges all concerned parties to continue to facilitate and support UNRWA's operations and to permit an expanded range of humanitarian assistance, particularly medical supplies, to enter Yarmouk. UNRWA stands ready to distribute in Yarmouk throughout daylight hours, seven days per week.

"UNRWA remains deeply concerned about the desperate humanitarian situation in Yarmouk and the fact that frequent disruptions of its humanitarian efforts deepen the plight of over 18,000 trapped civilians. To ensure that continuous, substantial and safe humanitarian access is indefinitely ensured, UNRWA demands that all parties cease hostilities and seek to resolve their differences exclusively by peaceful means."

24 APRIL 2014

Our spokesperson Chris Gunness has the following to say on the situation in Yarmouk Camp

"UNRWA distributed food parcels to 300 civilian families in Yarmouk on 24 April, the first such distribution in 15 days. An UNRWA team arrived at the Bateekhah northern entrance at 09:30 and was permitted to enter Yarmouk at 11:00. Distribution began at 11:30 and proceeded in an orderly manner until 14:00, when the authorities signaled an end to the distribution process. Since the adoption of resolution 2139 by the Security Council on 22nd February, UNRWA has distributed 4,683. It is not enough as an UNRWA food parcel feeds 5 people for ten days. There are 18,000 people in the camp.

"UNRWA acknowledges with gratitude the facilitation of Syrian authorities in today’s distribution. The Agency hopes that this opening will be sustained and expanded in the coming days. It is particularly vital that UNRWA is permitted to increase the duration and scale of distributions in Yarmouk on a continuous, daily basis. UNRWA urges all concerned parties to continue to facilitate and support UNRWA's operations and to permit an expanded range of humanitarian assistance, particularly medical supplies, to enter Yarmouk. UNRWA stands ready to distribute in Yarmouk throughout daylight hours, seven days per week.

"UNRWA remains deeply concerned about the desperate humanitarian situation in Yarmouk and the fact that frequent disruptions of its humanitarian efforts deepen the plight of over 18,000 trapped civilians. To ensure that continuous, substantial and safe humanitarian access is indefinitely ensured, UNRWA demands that all parties cease hostilities and seek to resolve their differences exclusively by peaceful means."

24 April 2014

"UNRWA gained access to the Palestinian refugee camp of Yarmouk in Damascus today and started to distribute food parcels this morning. 100 families received food by 1200hrs. Distributions are ongoing.

"UNRWA needs to distribute 700 food parcels a day in order to stave off hunger and malnutrition among the 18,000 civilians trapped in the besieged enclave.

"Resolution 2139 adopted unanimously by the Security Council on 22 February calls on all parties to facilitate secure, substantial and sustained humanitarian access in Yarmouk and all civilian areas."

23 April 2014

"UNRWA has been informed by the Government of Syria that we may re-start our humanitarian work in Yarmouk tomorrow, 24 April, after a fifteen day break. We welcome this move. The desperate humanitarian situation on the ground demands the establishment of the safe, substantial and sustained access that we have always demanded. This is required by resolution 2139 unanimously adopted by the Security Council on 22 February.

"For the sake of the thousands of deprived and desperate civilians, the authorities and other parties to the conflict must ensure that full, safe, continuous humanitarian access will henceforth be granted to Yarmouk and its civilian residents, along with all civilians in Syria."

22 April 2014

"UNRWA was not authorised to distribute food assistance in Yarmouk on 22 April. This is the fourteenth consecutive day that UNRWA has been unable to distribute food parcels inside Yarmouk.

"UNRWA remains deeply concerned about the desperate humanitarian situation in Yarmouk. The repeated resort to armed force has, over the previous month, repeatedly disrupted efforts to alleviate the plight of approximately 18,000 trapped civilians. As a result, UNRWA was able access Yarmouk on only 10 days over the 40 day period between 11 March and 20 April, distributing only 3,390 food parcels. UNRWA demands that all parties cease hostilities and seek to resolve their differences exclusively by peaceful means. UNRWA also demands that continuous, substantial and safe humanitarian access is ensured."

21 April 2014

"UNRWA was not authorised to distribute food assistance in Yarmouk on 20 April. This is the twelfth consecutive day that UNRWA has been unable to distribute food assistance inside Yarmouk. An UNRWA food parcel lasts for ten days, so 18,000 civilians in Yarmouk have now been without UN food for 48 hours. The threat of malnutrition and starvation increases with each passing hour. The Security Council must act as envisioned by resolution 2139 which calls for further action if full humanitarian access is not achieved.

20 April 2014

19 April 2014

"UNRWA was not authorised to distribute food assistance in Yarmouk refugee camp, Damascus on 19 April. This is the eleventh consecutive day that UNRWA has been unable to distribute food assistance inside Yarmouk. An UNRWA food parcel lasts for ten days, so we now estimate that there is no UN food in Yarmouk and that some 18,000 people have been without food for 24 hours and counting. Reports of malnutrition are widespread. This can only get worse unless food is delivered immediately.

"UNRWA remains deeply concerned about the desperate humanitarian situation in Yarmouk. The repeated resort to armed force has, over the previous month, repeatedly disrupted efforts to alleviate the plight of approximately 18,000 trapped civilians. As a result, UNRWA was able access Yarmouk on only 10 days over the 30 day period between 11 March and 10 April, distributing only 3,390 food parcels. UNRWA demands that all parties cease hostilities and seek to resolve their differences exclusively by peaceful means. UNRWA also demands that continuous, substantial and safe humanitarian access is ensured."

18 April 2014

"UNRWA was not authorised to distribute food assistance in the Palestinian refugee camp of Yarmouk in Damascus on 18 April where more than 20,000 civilians are desperately dependent on our aid. This is the tenth consecutive day that UNRWA has been unable to distribute food assistance inside Yarmouk. Given that an UNRWA food parcel lasts for a maximum of ten days, from tomorrow there will be no UN food in the camp. It is clear that in Yarmouk Security Council resolution 2139 is not being implemented. The resolution calls for further action in the case of non compliance.

"UNRWA remains deeply concerned about the desperate humanitarian situation in Yarmouk. The repeated resort to armed force has, over the previous month, repeatedly disrupted efforts to alleviate the plight of trapped civilians. As a result, UNRWA was able access Yarmouk on only 10 days over the 30 day period between 11 March and 10 April, distributing only 3,390 food parcels. UNRWA demands that all parties cease hostilities and seek to resolve their differences exclusively by peaceful means. UNRWA also demands that continuous, substantial and safe humanitarian access is ensured."

17 April 2014

"UNRWA was not authorised to distribute food assistance in Yarmouk on 17 April. This is the ninth consecutive day that UNRWA has been unable to distribute food assistance inside Yarmouk. Our food parcels last ten days so in about 36 hours people will have no food from the UN.

"UNRWA remains deeply concerned about the desperate humanitarian situation in Yarmouk. The repeated resort to armed force has, over the previous month, repeatedly disrupted efforts to alleviate the plight of approximately 18,000 trapped civilians. As a result, UNRWA was able access Yarmouk on only 10 days over the 30 day period between 11 March and 10 April, distributing only 3,390 food parcels. UNRWA demands that all parties cease hostilities and seek to resolve their differences exclusively by peaceful means. UNRWA also demands that continuous, substantial and safe humanitarian access is ensured."

16 April 2014

"UNRWA was not authorised to distribute food assistance in Yarmouk on 16 April. This is the eighth consecutive day that UNRWA has been unable to distribute food assistance inside Yarmouk.

"UNRWA remains deeply concerned about the desperate humanitarian situation in Yarmouk. The repeated resort to armed force has, over the previous month, repeatedly disrupted efforts to alleviate the plight of approximately 18,000 trapped civilians. As a result, UNRWA was able access Yarmouk on only 10 days over the 30 day period between 11 March and 10 April, distributing only 3,390 food parcels. UNRWA demands that all parties cease hostilities and seek to resolve their differences exclusively by peaceful means. UNRWA also demands that continuous, substantial and safe humanitarian access is ensured."

15 April 2014

"UNRWA was not authorised to distribute food assistance in Yarmouk on 15 April. This is the seventh consecutive day that UNRWA has been unable to distribute food assistance inside Yarmouk.

UNRWA remains deeply concerned about the desperate humanitarian situation in Yarmouk. The repeated resort to armed force has, over the previous month, repeatedly disrupted efforts to alleviate the plight of approximately 20,000 trapped civilians. As a result, UNRWA was able access Yarmouk on only 10 days over the 30 day period between 11 March and 10 April, distributing only 3,390 food parcels. UNRWA demands that all parties cease hostilities and seek to resolve their differences exclusively by peaceful means. UNRWA also demands that continuous, substantial and safe humanitarian access is ensured."

14 April 2014

"UNRWA was not authorised to distribute food assistance in Yarmouk on 14 April. This is the sixth consecutive day that UNRWA has been unable to distribute food assistance inside Yarmouk.

"UNRWA remains deeply concerned about the desperate humanitarian situation in Yarmouk. The repeated resort to armed force has, over the previous month, repeatedly disrupted efforts to alleviate the plight of approximately 20,000 trapped civilians. As a result, UNRWA was able access Yarmouk on only 10 days over the 30 day period between 11 March and 10 April, distributing only 3,390 food parcels. UNRWA demands that all parties cease hostilities and seek to resolve their differences exclusively by peaceful means. UNRWA also demands that continuous, substantial and safe humanitarian access is ensured, in accordance with Security Council resolution 2139 unanimously adopted on 22 February."

13 April 2014

Our spokesperson Chris Gunness has the following to say on the situation in Yarmouk Camp

"UNRWA was not authorised to distribute food assistance in Yarmouk on 13 April. This is the fifth consecutive day that UNRWA has been unable to distribute food assistance inside Yarmouk. We again demand that the parties on the ground facilitate full humanitarian access in accordance with Security Council resolution 2139 unanimously adopted on 22 February.

"UNRWA remains deeply concerned about the desperate humanitarian situation in Yarmouk. The repeated resort to armed force has, over the previous month, repeatedly disrupted efforts to alleviate the plight of approximately 20,000 trapped civilians. As a result, UNRWA was able access Yarmouk on only 10 days over the 30 day period between 11 March and 10 April, distributing only 3,390 food parcels. UNRWA demands that all parties cease hostilities and seek to resolve their differences exclusively by peaceful means. UNRWA also demands that continuous, substantial and safe humanitarian access is ensured."

11 April 2014

Our spokesperson Chris Gunness has the following to say on the situation in Yarmouk Camp

"UNRWA was not authorised to distribute food assistance in Yarmouk on 11 April, due to clashes during the previous night and early morning. This is the third consecutive day that clashes have prevented UNRWA from distributing food assistance inside Yarmouk.

"UNRWA remains deeply concerned about the desperate humanitarian situation in Yarmouk. The repeated resort to armed force has, over the previous month, repeatedly disrupted efforts to alleviate the plight of approximately 29,000 trapped civilians. As a result, UNRWA was able access Yarmouk on only 10 days over the 30 day period between 11 March and 10 April, distributing only 3,390 food parcels. UNRWA demands that all parties cease hostilities and seek to resolve their differences exclusively by peaceful means. UNRWA also demands that continuous, substantial and safe humanitarian access is ensured."

10 April 2014

Our spokesperson Chris Gunness has the following to say on the situation in Yarmouk Camp

"UNRWA was not authorised to distribute food assistance in Yarmouk on 10 April, due to sustained clashes during the previous night and over the course of the day. This is the second consecutive day that clashes have prevented UNRWA from distributing food assistance inside Yarmouk.

"UNUNRWA remains deeply concerned about the desperate humanitarian situation in Yarmouk. The repeated resort to armed force has, over the previous month, repeatedly disrupted efforts to alleviate the plight of approximately 20,000 trapped civilians. As a result, UNRWA has been able access Yarmouk on only 10 days over the 30 day period between 11 March and 10 April, distributing only 3,390 food parcels. UNRWA demands that all parties cease hostilities and seek to resolve their differences exclusively by peaceful means. UNRWA also demands that continuous, substantial and safe humanitarian access is ensured."

9 April 2014

Our spokesperson Chris Gunness has the following to say on the situation in Yarmouk Camp

"UNRWA was not authorised to distribute food assistance in Yarmouk on 9 April, due to sustained clashes during the previous night and early morning. An UNRWA team arrived at the northern Bateekhah entrance at 09:40 and was permitted to move to the Rama Street distribution area at 11:20. Syrian authorities subsequently advised that the area was too insecure to allow distribution that day. No civilians were present at the distribution area and the UNRWA team departed Bateekhah at 12:10.

8 April 2014

"UNRWA distributed 270 food parcels in Yarmouk on 8 April, the second consecutive day of distribution following seven days of suspended access. An UNRWA team was authorised to begin distribution at 11:00 and was instructed to depart at 16:15. Time-consuming inspection of relief supplies slowed the pace of delivery in the early afternoon, though this issue was eventually resolved. UNRWA urges the authorities to facilitate an increased rate of distribution over the coming days.

"UNRWA acknowledges with gratitude the role of the Syrian authorities in facilitating today's distribution and hopes that current limited access will be expanded and sustained. In particular, UNRWA encourages all concerned parties to immediately authorise and facilitate the distribution of medical supplies in Yarmouk, alongside expanded distribution of food and other humanitarian supplies.

"UNRWA remains deeply concerned about the desperate humanitarian situation in Yarmouk and the regular disruptions affecting its efforts to alleviate the plight of approximately 18,000 trapped civilians. UNRWA demands that all parties cease hostilities and seek to resolve their differences exclusively by peaceful means. UNRWA also demands that continuous, substantial and safe humanitarian access is ensured."

6 April 2014

"UNRWA was not cleared to distribute food in Yarmouk on 6 April, the seventh consecutive day that no UNRWA food supplies have entered the camp. Syrian authorities had informed UNRWA on 30 March that access for UNRWA would be suspended for four consecutive days, with operations resuming on Friday, 4 April. This period has expired with no indication that UNRWA may resume the distribution of food and other humanitarian assistance to civilians inside Yarmouk. Accordingly, UNRWA has renewed its demand for safe, substantial and uninterrupted access to Yarmouk and its civilians.

"UNRWA is concerned that while renewed authorization to work in Yarmouk not been granted, other organizations are being authorized and supported to distribute food in the area. Given UNRWA's mandate, its adherence to principles of neutrality and the Agency’s proven capacity to meet the humanitarian needs of the over 18,000 Palestine refugees and other civilians trapped in Yarmouk, it is vital that UNRWA is authorized to resume its humanitarian role in the area. Since 1 March and due to prolonged periods with no access, UNRWA's average daily distribution rate has dropped to only 83 food parcels per day, leaving thousands of families without regular access to food and other essential supplies.

"UNRWA is deeply concerned that this interruption of food distribution in Yarmouk will prolong the suffering of the approximately 20,000 civilians trapped there. UNRWA possesses the resources, staff and humanitarian expertise to restore food security and a full spectrum of humanitarian services including medicines and hygiene kits to civilians in Yarmouk. The Agency urges all concerned parties to immediately allow and facilitate the resumption of UNRWA food distributions to civilians inside Yarmouk."

5 April 2014

"UNRWA was not cleared to distribute food in Yarmouk on 5 April, the sixth consecutive day that no UNRWA food supplies have entered the camp. Syrian authorities had informed UNRWA on 30 March that access for UNRWA would be suspended for four consecutive days, with operations resuming on Friday, 4 April. This period has expired with no indication that UNRWA may resume the distribution of food and other humanitarian assistance to civilians inside Yarmouk. Accordingly, UNRWA has renewed its demand for safe, substantial and uninterrupted access to Yarmouk and its civilians.

"Given UNRWA's mandate, its adherence to principles of neutrality and the Agency’s proven capacity to meet the humanitarian needs of the over 18,000 Palestine refugees and other civilians trapped in Yarmouk, it is vital that UNRWA is authorized to resume its humanitarian role in the area. Since 1 March and due to prolonged periods with no access, UNRWA's average daily distribution rate has dropped to only 83 food parcels per day, leaving thousands of families without regular access to food and other essential supplies.

3-4 April 2014

"UNRWA was not cleared to distribute food in Yarmouk on either 3 or 4 April. Syrian authorities informed UNRWA on 30 March that access for UNRWA would be suspended for four consecutive days, until today Friday, 4 April. Today represents the fifth consecutive day that UNRWA has not bee permitted to access Yarmouk. Accordingly, UNRWA has renewed its demand for safe, substantial and uninterrupted access to Yarmouk and its civilians.

"It is essential that large numbers of food parcels are distributed in Yarmouk every day in order to meet the minimum food requirements of the civilian population. During March, the average daily distribution rate was only 97 food parcels per day, with frequent armed engagements impeding regular access.

"UNRWA is deeply concerned that any interruption of food distribution in Yarmouk, including the present one, will prolong the suffering of the approximately 18,000 civilians trapped there. UNRWA possesses the resources, staff and humanitarian expertise to restore food security and a full spectrum of humanitarian services to civilians in Yarmouk. The Agency urges all concerned parties to immediately allow and facilitate the resumption of UNRWA food distributions to civilians inside Yarmouk."

2 April 2014

"UNRWA was not cleared to distribute food in Yarmouk today, 2 April. Syrian authorities informed UNRWA on 30 March that access for UNRWA would be suspended for four consecutive days, until Friday, 4 April. Accordingly, UNRWA has renewed its demand for safe, substantial and uninterrupted access to Yarmouk and its civilians.

"UNRWA is deeply concerned that any interruption of food distribution in Yarmouk, including the present one, will prolong the suffering of the approximately 20,000 civilians trapped there. UNRWA possesses the resources, staff and humanitarian expertise to restore food security and a full spectrum of humanitarian services to civilians in Yarmouk. The Agency urges all concerned parties to immediately allow and facilitate the resumption of UNRWA food distributions to civilians inside Yarmouk in accordance with resolution 2139 unanimously adopted by the Security Council on 22 February."

1 April 2014

"UNRWA was not cleared to distribute food in Yarmouk on 1 April. Syrian authorities informed UNRWA on 30 March that access for UNRWA would be suspended for four consecutive days, until Friday, 4 April. Accordingly, UNRWA has renewed its demand for safe, substantial and uninterrupted access to Yarmouk and its civilians.

31 March 2014

"UNRWA was not cleared to distribute food in Yarmouk today, 31 March. Syrian authorities informed UNRWA on 30 March that access for UNRWA would be suspended for four consecutive days, until Friday, 4 April. We were not told why. Accordingly, UNRWA has renewed its demand for safe, substantial and uninterrupted access to Yarmouk and its civilians.

"Since 18 January UNRWA has distributed 10,708 food parcels in Yarmouk. It is essential that large numbers of food parcels are distributed in Yarmouk every day in order to meet the minimum food requirements of the civilian population. During March, the average daily distribution rate was only 97 food parcels per day, with frequent armed engagements impeding regular access. That number is far too low.

"UNRWA is deeply concerned that any interruption of food distribution in Yarmouk, including the present one, will prolong the suffering of the approximately 20,000 civilians trapped there. UNRWA possesses the resources, staff and humanitarian expertise to restore food security and a full spectrum of humanitarian services to civilians in Yarmouk. The Agency urges all concerned parties immediately to allow and facilitate the resumption of UNRWA food distributions to civilians inside Yarmouk in accordance with resolution 2139 unanimously adopted by the Security Council on 22 February."

30 March 2014

"UNRWA distributed 280 food parcels in the Yarmouk Palestinian refugee camp in Damascus on 30 March. An UNRWA team was authorised to access Yarmouk via the northern Bateekhah entrance at 12:00 noon, with distribution starting on Rama Street at 12:30. The distribution proceeded until 16:30, when the UNRWA team was instructed to depart. The distribution proceeded in an orderly manner throughout the afternoon. Since 18 January UNRWA has distributed 10,708 food parcels in Yarmouk.

"UNRWA has been subsequently informed by the authorities that distribution may not recommence for four days. UNRWA will continue to work with all concerned parties to re-establish access as soon as possible.

"Civilians in Yarmouk continue to suffer from hunger, harsh conditions, and other consequences of closure and severe curtailment of humanitarian access. UNRWA strongly urges all parties to act immediately to end this suffering by facilitate UNRWA to distribute food and other humanitarian supplies with no limitations, and to allow indefinitely safe, substantial humanitarian access to the civilian population in Yarmouk; in compliance with resolution 2139 which was passed unanimously by the Security Council on 22 February. "

29 March 2014

"UNRWA distributed food parcels in Yarmouk on 29 March 2014.

"During the past four days UNRWA distributed food parcels, bread and jam to the civilian population in Yarmouk. On 29 March 300 of them received parcels through an orderly and calm distribution in Rama street. An UNRWA distribution team arrived to Yarmouk at 10:30. The distribution started at 12:30. Since 18 January we have distributed 10,428 food parcels. It is not enough. We need to distribute a bare minimum of 400 a day if the people of Yarmouk are to be kept from the brink of malnutrition and starvation. Far more than food is needed.

28 March 2014

"UNRWA distributed food parcels in Yarmouk today and yesterday.

"After a break of three days, UNRWA was able to resume its food distributions to the civilians in Yarmouk in Damascus on 27 March by distributing 300 food parcels during three and a half hours. The distribution continued today, 28 March 2014. UNRWA distribution teams reached Bateekhah Square in northern Yarmouk at 10:30 and started work at the distribution point at 13:00. We finished at 17:45 having distributed 455 food parcels in addition to bread and jam. Since 18 January we have distributed 10,128 food parcels in UNRWA. It is not enough. We aim to distribute tomorrow if the security situation allows.

"Despite the resumption of the distribution for the second consecutive day the quantity distributed remains minimal while the suffering of the civilians in Yarmouk continues to be immense. At least 18,000 civilians are confined in a small area, exposed to armed clashes, without being able to satisfy their basic needs. UNRWA’s current distribution efforts do not provide sufficient relief for their suffering. And UNRWA remains deeply concerned about the desperate humanitarian situation in Yarmouk and is committed to do much more for those people. Therefore UNRWA strongly appeals to all sides in the conflict to take side of the civilians and alleviate their suffering. It strongly demands ceasing hostilities and providing to UNRWA continuous and unrestricted humanitarian access to the civilian population in Yarmouk in accordance with Security Council resolution 2139."

28 March 2014

"UNRWA has gained access to the Palestinian refugee camp of Yarmouk in Damascus today and has started distributing food parcels.

"After a break of three days, UNRWA was able to resume its food distributions to the civilians in Yarmouk yesterday (27 March). UNRWA distribution teams reached Bateekhah Square in northern Yarmouk at 10:00 yesterday and started work at the distribution point at 12:20. We finished at 16:00 having distributed 300 food parcels. Since 18 January UNRWA has distributed 9,673 food parcels in Yarmouk where there are some 20,000 people, including 18,000 Palestinians.

"UNRWA remains deeply concerned about the desperate humanitarian situation in Yarmouk and strongly urges all concerned parties to ensure substantial, secure and sustained humanitarian access in compliance with Security Council resolution 2139 unanimously adopted on 22 February."

26 March 2014

"There was no UNRWA distribution in Yarmouk refugee camp, Damascus, yesterday, 26 March. Since 18 January UNRWA has distributed 9, 373 food parcels to Yarmouk where there are 18,000 Palestinian refugees and several thousand Syrians.

"UNRWA has received credible reports that clashes and shelling occurred in Yarmouk during the night of 25 March, continuing throughout the day on 26 March. Ongoing hostilities prevented UNRWA from distributing humanitarian assistance for a third consecutive day.

"UNRWA remains deeply concerned about the desperate humanitarian situation in Yarmouk and the fact that repeated resort to armed force has, over this week, disrupted its efforts to alleviate the desperate plight of civilians. UNRWA reiterates its strong demands that all parties cease hostilities and seek to resolve their differences exclusively by peaceful means. UNRWA also urges all concerned parties to immediately allow and facilitate the resumption of food distribution to besieged civilians inside Yarmouk in accordance with Security Council resolution 2139."

25 March 2014

"UNRWA received credible reports that clashes and shelling continued in Yarmouk on 25 March. Although our team was at the northern Bateekhah entrance to Yarmouk at 10:00 on the morning of 25th March, ongoing hostilities prevented their entry to Yarmouk and UNRWA from distributing humanitarian assistance for the second consecutive day.

"UNRWA remains deeply concerned about the desperate humanitarian situation in Yarmouk and the fact that repeated resort to armed force has disrupted its efforts to alleviate the desperate plight of civilians. UNRWA reiterates its strong demands that all parties cease hostilities and seek to resolve their differences exclusively by peaceful means. UNRWA also urges all concerned parties to immediately allow and facilitate the resumption of food distribution to civilians inside Yarmouk."

24 March 2014

"Following reports of clashes in Yamouk refugee camp, Damascus, UNRWA did not distribute food and medicine in Yarmouk yesterday, 24 March.

"UNRWA demands and expects that all concerned parties will end recourse to armed activities and establish conditions that will guarantee safe, substantial, uninterrupted humanitarian access to Yarmouk and its civilian population. UNRWA is closely monitoring the situation in Yarmouk with a view to resuming the distribution of food and other humanitarian supplies as soon as circumstances permit.

"Since 18 January UNRWA has distributed 9, 373 food parcels.

"UNRWA remains deeply concerned about the desperate humanitarian situation in Yarmouk and the fact that repeated resort to armed conflict has disrupted its efforts to alleviate the desperate plight of civilians. UNRWA reiterates its strong demands that all parties cease hostilities and seek to resolve their differences exclusively by peaceful means."

23 March 2014

"UNRWA distribution resumed in Yarmouk today with food parcels and medicines distributed to 448 civilian families. Since 18 January UNRWA has distributed 9, 373 food parcels.

"After a day of interruption UNRWA resumed the distribution in Yarmouk today. The distribution started at 12:30 pm and continued through 17:00. During that period 448 food parcels together with certain quantity of vitamin supplements, and rehydration and CD medicines, as well as high energy biscuits and dates were distributed to the civilian population in Yarmouk. The distribution was orderly within well-organized distribution area around Rama street. Towards the end of the distribution, gun fire was heard from inside Yarmouk yet it did not impact the safety of beneficiaries or distribution team.

"UNRWA remains deeply concerned about the desperate humanitarian situation in Yarmouk and the fact that continuous tensions and resort to armed force frequently disrupt its efforts to alleviate the desperate plight of civilians. UNRWA demands that all parties cease hostilities and seek to resolve their differences exclusively by peaceful means. UNRWA also demands that continuous, substantial and safe humanitarian access is ensured. Please feel free to get in touch if you require additional information."

22 March 2014

"Following clashes at the food distribution point in Yamouk refugee camp, Damascus, on 21 March, UNRWA did not distribute food and medicine in Yarmouk yesterday, 22 March.

21 March 2014

"UNRWA distributed 197 food parcels and a limited quantity of medical items in Yarmouk today, 21 March. We have now delivered 8,925 food parcels since 18 January. The UNRWA team was forced to withdraw after only two hours of distribution, when armed clashes erupted around the distribution point. All UNRWA staff are safe and accounted for, though hundreds of civilians were trapped in the distribution area for several hours by intense exchanges of fire. UNRWA has received credible reports that clashes have continued into the evening, resulting in several casualties. The UNRWA team arrived at the northern Bateekhah entrance to Yarmouk at 11:30 this morning, starting distribution of food parcels and medical items at the Rama Street distribution point at 13:00. Despite the presence of large crowds, the distribution proceeded in an orderly manner until 15:00, when shots were directed at the distribution area from further inside Yarmouk. Military forces responded with heavy fire, prompting the immediate evacuation of the UNRWA team to the Bateekhah entrance.

"Today’s incidents represent a deeply concerning degradation of the security situation in Yarmouk. UNRWA condemns the conduct of armed activities in an area where distribution of humanitarian supplies to desperate civilians was known to be taking place. This only serves to deepen the intense suffering inflicted on civilians inside Yarmouk. In the strongest possible terms, UNRWA reiterates its demand that all parties to the conflict comply with their obligations under international law and Security Council Resolution 2139, to provide safe, unhindered and continuous humanitarian access to civilians trapped in Yarmouk."

21 March 2014

"The iconic image of a huge crowd waiting for UNRWA food parcels in the Palestinian refugee camp of Yarmouk, Damascus has gone up on the "Jumbotron" billboard in New York's Times Square. This sends a powerful message to the world diplomatic community down the road at UN Head Quarters that the world has had enough of Syria's pitiless conflict. The photo which went viral on the internet within minutes of being released has come to symbolize the revulsion of the world with what is taking place in Syria. The showing in Times Square follows a successful, celebrity backed social media campaign by UNRWA to secure support from 23 million people worldwide, the pre war population of Syria. As the image went up, a crowd below held up pita bread as a symbolic gesture of support for the starving masses in Syria."

20 March 2014

"After chaotic scenes yesterday in the Yarmouk refugee camp, Damascus, when huge crowds of hungry and desperate people halted food distributions, UNRWA today distributed 555 food parcels as well as medicines. An UNRWA team arrived at the northern Bateekhah entrance of Yarmouk at 10:45 hrs, starting distribution at 12:00. The distribution was orderly, with a well-organized and controlled distribution area. The distribution team departed at 16:30. We hope that we will continue with our distributions of humanitarian supplies in the coming period. And we trust that cooperation from the parties on the ground will continue to be extended so that resolution 2139 which was unanimously adopted by the Security Council and which calls for humanitarian access can be fully implemented.

"Meanwhile, preparations continue in New York for a “Flashmob” vigil at 7 30 tonight local time at 3 Times Square. This event is an act of global solidarity with a glorious symbolism. We have put this iconic image of Syrian desperate civilians on the world famous “Jumbotron” megabillboard in Times Square and we are drawing attention to it in an act of public support with people holding up a sea of pita bread as if offering food to the starving people of Syria. We are taking pictures and tweeting them back round the world and into Yarmouk and other civilian areas of Syria. I hope people there realize that they are not forgotten. We care. We care deeply about the terrible suffering that this pitiless conflict has inflicted on them; the countless children, women, the sick, the elderly the sick, the dying. That was the message we wanted to convey when we devised this campaign.

“The situation on the ground is one of untold suffering. There are about 20,000 people in Yarmouk, trapped for months in appalling conditions. We have taken in 8,728 food parcels since 18 January. An UNRWA food parcel feeds a family for just 10 days, so you can do the math and realize there is nothing like enough food there. People are growing hungry by the hour and we hope the people sitting around that horse shoe table in the Security Council see this image and realise that there is a human dimension to their diplomatic debates.

“In the bigger picture across Syria we estimate that 10 million need some form of assistance of which 5 million are children. It’s that last stat that is particularly heart-breaking.”

19 March 2014

"Today at around noon, UNRWA aborted an attempt to distribute food inside the Palestinian refugee camp of Yarmouk in Damascus, without a single food parcel delivered. Upon arrival at the distribution point, our staff encountered a massive throng of desperate civilians expecting to receive sustenance. With no apparent effort by the entities inside Yarmouk to organize the crowds, chaotic scenes rendered safe distribution impossible. There were angry scenes as representatives of the parties inside Yarmouk, Government of Syria representatives and Palestinian faction officials heatedly traded blame for the absence of organization and total lack of order. UNRWA was left with no choice but to pull out. The Government of Syria remains insistent that it is committed to support and facilitate food distribution inside Yarmouk. This was stressed to UNRWA during a meeting with Syrian officials today. The UNRWA team in Damascus ass already prepared to make a fresh attempt to deliver food tomorrow.

"We again call on all parties to facilitate humanitarian access and the delivery of aid in accordance with Security Council resolution 2139, about which the Secretary General is due to report soon. We remain extremely concerned about the plight of some 20,000 civilians including many women and children trapped inside Yarmouk. The desperate scenes we encountered today attest to the urgent need to see this unanimously adopted resolution implemented immediately. The Security Council has 'expressed its intent to take further steps in the case of non-compliance.'”

18 March 2014

"After a break of more than two weeks, UNRWA was able to resume its food distributions to the Yarmouk refugee camp in Damascus today. UNRWA distribution teams reached Bateekhah Square in northern Yarmouk at 10:15 this morning and started work at the distribution point at 12:25 with the facilitation of the Syrian authorities. We finished at 17:35 having distributed 465 food parcels in addition to bread and jam. We aim to distribute tomorrow if the security situation allows. We also delivered today through the Palestinian Red Crescent Society 2,000 doses of polio vaccines and 800 small cartons of baby formula milk.

Since 18th January UNRWA has delivered 8,173 food parcels to Yarmouk where there are an estimated 18,000 Palestinians and several thousand ordinary Syrian civilians. One food parcel provides a family of between 5 to 8 people with a very basic food intake for 10 days. Although food parcels reached relatively few of the families currently residing in Yarmouk, today's distribution, following two weeks of renewed tension and heavy armed clashes, gave the beleagured civilians of Yarmouk a glimmer of hope that UNRWA's humanitarian work will be allowed to resume and to continue with no further interruptions.

Set against the substantial civilian needs and the protracted closure of Yarmouk, the modest supplies we have taken in are not enough. We require secure, substantial and sustained humanitarian access as the Security Council has unanimously requested, and call on all concerned parties to ensure the establishment and maintenance of conditions that facilitate full access to Yarmouk.

This news comes on the day that UNRWA launched the final part of its “Thunderclap” social media campaign for humanitarian access to Yarmouk and all civilian areas of Syria. We aimed to reach 23 million, the pre-war population of Syria, which we achieved. As a result, the iconic image of thousands of people waiting for food in Yarmouk (attached) will appear on the massive “Jumbotron” electronic billboard in New York’s Times Square. It will appear for five minutes from 7 30 pm to 7 35 pm and from 8 30 pm to 8 35 pm local time on Thursday 20th March. The image on the Jumbotron sends a powerful signal to the world diplomatic community just down the road at the UN that humanitarian access is urgent and must be sustained. It also sends a message of solidarity to the people of Yarmouk and all civilians in Syria that their plight is not forgotten.

17 MARCH 2014

"For the 18th consecutive day , UNRWA has been unable to deliver food to Yarmouk Camp, Damascus, where over 18,000 human beings grow increasingly hungry with each passing hour. For a Spokesman it is rare that words fail. But after three years of the Syria conflict they are losing their meaning. Under the weight of such overwhelming tragedy they break down. Their meaning disintegrates. To mark this, starting I am releasing an on line exhibition of 17 photographs taken by Rami Al-Sayyed, a 30 year old resident of Yarmouk. The exhibition is called “Cry from the Heart: the Children of Yarmouk”. It will be released over the next three weeks through twitter, @ChrisGunness. Please feel free to publish these photographs but please use the photo credit “Rami Al-Sayyed, unrwa.org”.

"The second photo in this ongoing, on line exhibition is called “Dog”, an extraordinarily haunting image, with a real sense of drama. Is the dog alive or dead? Where is the boy looking and why is there an oven to the right? If after seeing it you are moved to support our campaign for humanitarian access, please join up at:

https://www.thunderclap.it/projects/9565-letusthrough?locale=en

16 MARCH 2014

"It is now more than two weeks since UNRWA was able to deliver food to Yarmouk Camp, Damascus, where over 18,000 human beings grow increasingly hungry with each passing hour. For a Spokesman it is rare that words fail. But after three years of the Syria conflict they are losing their meaning. Under the weight of such overwhelming tragedy they break down. Their meaning disintegrates. To mark this, starting today I am releasing an on line exhibition of 17 photographs taken by Rami al-Sayed, a 30 year old resident of Yarmouk. The exhibition is called 'A Cry from the Heart: the Children of Yarmouk'. It will be released over the next three weeks through twitter, @ChrisGunness. Please feel free to publish these photographs but please use the photo credit 'Rami al-Sayed, unrwa.org'.

"The first photo in this on going, on line exhibition is called “No More Tears”. If after seeing it you are moved to support our campaign for humanitarian access, please join up at a:

https://www.thunderclap.it/projects/9565-letusthrough?locale=en

15 March 2014

“Yesterday and today we were unable to have access to the twenty thousand civilians in Yarmouk, Damascus, who with every passing hour grow hungrier and more desperate. There is profound and tragic suffering among women and children, the elderly, the sick, they dying. We have reports of widespread malnutrition among children and of women dying in childbirth for lack of medical care. All this in the capital city of a UN member state in the 21st century! So this powerfully simple and pointed statement from the Hoping Foundation and its celebrity supporters, along with UNRWA, is incredibly timely. It is also focused in that it asks a question of two individuals, the Presidents of the General Assembly and the Security Council. The question begs an answer."

Read the joint press pelease by the the Hoping Foundation and UNRWA here.

13-15 MARCH 2014

"UNRWA has received credible reports that intermittent shelling and clashes continued in the period 13-15 March. Ongoing hostilities have now prevented UNRWA from distributing humanitarian assistance in Yarmouk for fifteen consecutive days.

"UNRWA remains deeply concerned about the desperate humanitarian situation in Yarmouk and the fact that repeated resort to armed force has, over the previous fifteen days, disrupted its efforts to alleviate the desperate plight of civilians. UNRWA reiterates its strong demands that all parties cease hostilities and seek to resolve their differences exclusively by peaceful means. UNRWA also urges all concerned parties to immediately allow and facilitate the resumption of food distribution to civilians inside Yarmouk."

12 MARCH 2014

"UNRWA has received credible reports that intermittent shelling intensified on 12 March, accompanied by sporadic clashes. Ongoing hostilities have now prevented UNRWA from distributing humanitarian assistance in Yarmouk for twelve consecutive days.

"UNRWA remains deeply concerned about the desperate humanitarian situation in Yarmouk and the fact that repeated resort to armed force has, over the previous twelve days, disrupted its efforts to alleviate the desperate plight of civilians. UNRWA reiterates its strong demands that all parties cease hostilities and seek to resolve their differences exclusively by peaceful means. UNRWA also urges all concerned parties to immediately allow and facilitate the resumption of food distribution to civilians inside Yarmouk."

11 MARCH 2014

"UNRWA has received credible reports that clashes and shelling intensified in Yarmouk during the night of 9 March and continued throughout the day of 11 March. Ongoing hostilities have now prevented UNRWA from distributing humanitarian assistance in Yarmouk for eleven consecutive days.

"UNRWA remains deeply concerned about the desperate humanitarian situation in Yarmouk and the fact that repeated resort to armed force has, over the previous eleven days, disrupted its efforts to alleviate the desperate plight of civilians. UNRWA reiterates its strong demands that all parties cease hostilities and seek to resolve their differences exclusively by peaceful means. UNRWA also urges all concerned parties to immediately allow and facilitate the resumption of food distribution to civilians inside Yarmouk."

10 MARCH 2014

"UNRWA has received credible reports that clashes and shelling continued in Yarmouk throughout 10 March. Ongoing hostilities have now prevented UNRWA from distributing humanitarian assistance in Yarmouk for ten consecutive days.

"UNRWA remains deeply concerned about the desperate humanitarian situation in Yarmouk and the fact that repeated resort to armed force has, over the previous ten days, disrupted its efforts to alleviate the desperate plight of civilians. UNRWA reiterates its strong demands that all parties cease hostilities and seek to resolve their differences exclusively by peaceful means. UNRWA also urges all concerned parties to immediately allow and facilitate the resumption of food distribution to civilians inside Yarmouk."

8 MARCH 2014

"UNRWA has received credible reports that clashes and shelling continued in Yarmouk throughout 8 and 9 March, although at substantially reduced intensity. Ongoing hostilities have now prevented UNRWA from distributing humanitarian assistance in Yarmouk for nine consecutive days.

"UNRWA remains deeply concerned about the desperate humanitarian situation in Yarmouk and the fact that repeated resort to armed force has, over the previous nine days, disrupted its efforts to alleviate the desperate plight of civilians. UNRWA reiterates its strong demands that all parties cease hostilities and seek to resolve their differences exclusively by peaceful means. UNRWA also urges all concerned parties to immediately allow and facilitate the resumption of food distribution to civilians inside Yarmouk."

7 MARCH 2014

"UNRWA has received credible reports that clashes and shelling continued in Yarmouk on 7 March. Ongoing hostilities prevented UNRWA from distributing humanitarian assistance for a seventh consecutive day.

"UNRWA remains deeply concerned about the desperate humanitarian situation in Yarmouk and the fact that repeated resort to armed force has, over the previous week, disrupted its efforts to alleviate the desperate plight of civilians. UNRWA reiterates its strong demands that all parties cease hostilities and seek to resolve their differences exclusively by peaceful means. UNRWA also urges all concerned parties to immediately allow and facilitate the resumption of food distribution to civilians inside Yarmouk.

"Everyone must join our Twitter campaign via the link below to get our iconic image of Yarmouk food distributions on the electronic billboard in New York’s Times Square, not far from the Security Council. We need 23 million people to sign up (the pre war population of Syria) and we’ll take our message to the home of world diplomacy."

https://www.thunderclap.it/projects/9565-letusthrough?locale=en

6 MARCH 2014

"UNRWA has received credible reports that clashes and shelling occurred in Yarmouk during the night of 5 March, continuing throughout the day on 6 March. Ongoing hostilities prevented UNRWA from distributing humanitarian assistance for a sixth consecutive day. UNRWA remains deeply concerned about the desperate humanitarian situation in Yarmouk and the fact that repeated resort to armed force has, over the previous week, disrupted its efforts to alleviate the desperate plight of civilians. UNRWA reiterates its strong demands that all parties cease hostilities and seek to resolve their differences exclusively by peaceful means. UNRWA also urges all concerned parties to immediately allow and facilitate the resumption of food distribution to civilians inside Yarmouk."

5 MARCH 2014

"UNRWA has received credible reports that intense clashes and shelling occurred in Yarmouk during the night of 4 March, with sporadic shelling continuing throughout the day on 5 March. The nearby area of Hajr al Aswad has reportedly been affected by similar armed conflict. UNRWA has received additional, unconfirmed reports of several armed groups re-entering Yarmouk from adjacent areas.

"The events of the past 24 hours represent a major deterioration in the security situation and raise serious concerns about the prospects of an early resumption of UNRWA’s distribution of food to civilians in Yarmouk. UNRWA has not been able to distribute food assistance in Yarmouk since 28 February and cannot safely operate while intense hostilities are ongoing.

"UNRWA remains deeply concerned about the desperate humanitarian situation in Yarmouk and the fact that repeated resort to armed force has, over several days, disrupted its efforts to alleviate the desperate plight of civilians. UNRWA reiterates its strong demands that all parties cease hostilities and seek to resolve their differences exclusively by peaceful means. UNRWA also urges all concerned parties to immediately allow and facilitate the resumption of food distribution to civilians inside Yarmouk."

4 MARCH 2014

"No further armed clashes have taken place in Yarmouk since the evening of 2 March. However, there was no distribution of UNRWA food parcels in Yarmouk today, as concerned parties reportedly continued to negotiate ways to reduce tensions.

"UNRWA remains deeply concerned about the desperate humanitarian situation in Yarmouk and the fact that increasing tensions and resort to armed force have disrupted its efforts to alleviate the desperate plight of civilians. UNRWA demands that all parties cease hostilities and seek to resolve their differences exclusively by peaceful means. UNRWA also urges all concerned parties to immediately allow and facilitate the resumption of food distribution to civilians inside Yarmouk. UNRWA further demands that continuous, substantial and safe humanitarian access will follow."

3 MARCH 2014

"No further armed clashes have taken place in Yarmouk since yesterday evening. However, there was no distribution of UNRWA food parcels in Yarmouk today, as concerned parties reportedly continued to negotiate ways to reduce tensions.

2 MARCH 2014

"There was no distribution of UNRWA food parcels in Yarmouk today. UNRWA was informed that parties to the recent security agreement in Yarmouk were meeting in the morning to discuss outstanding implementation issues.

"UNRWA received credible reports of clashes in the northern area of Yarmouk over the course of the afternoon and into the early evening.

1 March 2014

"There was no distribution of UNRWA food parcels in Yarmouk today. UNRWA was informed that parties to the recent security agreement in Yarmouk were meeting to discuss outstanding implementation issues.

"UNRWA was further informed that distribution would be permitted to resume as soon as possible.

"UNRWA remains deeply concerned about the desperate humanitarian situation in Yarmouk and strongly urges all concerned parties to facilitate the immediate resumption of continuous, unhindered humanitarian access. To date since 18 January, UNRWA has distributed just 7,708 food parcels. One UNRWA food parcel feeds a family of five to eight people for up to ten days. Inside Yarmouk there are 18,000 Palestinians and an unknown number of Syrian civilians.

"According to operative paragraph seven of Security Council Resolution 2139 unanimously adopted on 22nd February, the parties must 'take all appropriate steps to facilitate the efforts of the United Nations, its specialized agencies, and all humanitarian actors engaged in humanitarian relief activities, to provide immediate humanitarian assistance to the affected people in Syria, including by promptly facilitating safe and unhindered humanitarian access to populations in need of assistance in all areas under their control, and encourages further cooperation between the United Nations, its specialized agencies and all parties concerned, including Syrian civil society organisations, to facilitate access and the delivery of assistance in the entirety of the Syrian territory.'

"Operative paragraph seventeen of 22139 'requests the Secretary-General to report to the Council on the implementation of this resolution by all parties in Syria, in particular paragraphs 2 through 12, in 30 days of its adoption and every 30 days thereafter, and upon receipt of the Secretary-General’s report, expresses its intent to take further steps in the case of non-compliance with this resolution.'"

28 FeBruary 2014

"UNRWA distributed 140 food parcels in Yarmouk today, starting the distribution at 13:05 from the Reja area of Yarmouk. The distribution was well organized and proceeded in an orderly manner until 14:05, when it was interrupted due to security concerns. The situation deteriorated over the proceeding hour and the UNRWA team withdrew at 15:30. The team remained at the northern Bateekhah entrance until 17:10.

"To date since 18 January, UNRWA has distributed just 7,708 food parcels. One UNRWA food parcel feeds a family of five to eight people for up to ten days. Inside Yarmouk there are 18,000 Palestinians and an unknown number of Syrian civilians.

"Syrian authorities suggested that the distribution continue tomorrow from the initial distribution point in Rama Street until security in other parts of Yarmouk can be guaranteed.

"UNRWA remains deeply concerned about the desperate humanitarian situation in Yarmouk and strongly urges all concerned parties to ensure that conditions are in place to provide for the resumption of continuous, unhindered humanitarian access.

According to operative paragraph seven of Security Council Resolution 2139 unanimously adopted on 22nd February, the parties must “take all appropriate steps to facilitate the efforts of the United Nations, its specialized agencies, and all humanitarian actors engaged in humanitarian relief activities, to provide immediate humanitarian assistance to the affected people in Syria, including by promptly facilitating safe and unhindered humanitarian access to populations in need of assistance in all areas under their control, and encourages further cooperation between the United Nations, its specialized agencies and all parties concerned, including Syrian civil society organisations, to facilitate access and the delivery of assistance in the entirety of the Syrian territory.”

27 FEBRUARY 2014

"UNRWA distributed only 75 food parcels and 200 packages of bread in Yarmouk today, after access was granted at 15:30. At 17:00 the UNRWA team was forced to withdraw following sounds of gunfire in the vicinity of the Tabgha School distribution point, 1.5 km inside the camp, where the distribution was taking place for the second day. To date since 18 January, UNRWA has distributed just 7,568 food parcels. One UNRWA food parcel feeds a family of five to eight people for up to ten days. Inside Yarmouk there are 18,000 Palestinians and an unknown number of Syrian civilians.

"Concerned parties informed the UNRWA team that humanitarian access would be permitted to resume in the coming days, pending implementation of the recent security agreement in Yarmouk.

"UNRWA remains deeply concerned about the desperate humanitarian situation in Yarmouk and strongly urges all concerned parties to ensure that conditions are in place to allow the resumption of continuous, unhindered humanitarian access as soon as possible.

"According to operative paragraph seven of Security Council Resolution 2139 unanimously adopted on 22nd February, the parties must 'take all appropriate steps to facilitate the efforts of the United Nations, its specialized agencies, and all humanitarian actors engaged in humanitarian relief activities, to provide immediate humanitarian assistance to the affected people in Syria, including by promptly facilitating safe and unhindered humanitarian access to populations in need of assistance in all areas under their control, and encourages further cooperation between the United Nations, its specialized agencies and all parties concerned, including Syrian civil society organisations, to facilitate access and the delivery of assistance in the entirety of the Syrian territory.'"

26 FEBRUARY 2014

"UNRWA distributed 450 food parcels in the Palestinian refugee camp of Yarmouk in Damascus today, 26 February, bringing to 7,493 the total of food parcels distributed since 18 January. An UNRWA food parcel feeds a family of between five and eight for ten days. There 18,000 Palestinians in the camp and an unknown number of Syrians.

"Significantly, the UNRWA team was permitted to work from an UNRWA facility in Yarmouk for the first time since December, 2012. This represents a highly encouraging step towards re-establishing full services and humanitarian access to Yarmouk.

"The UNRWA team received authorisation to resume food distribution inside Yarmouk at 14:00. We proceeded from the northern Bateekhah entrance to UNRWA's Tabgha School, approximately 1.5 kilometres inside Yarmouk. UNRWA vehicles carried 450 parcels to the school, with distribution commencing at 15:45 and continuing until 19:45. Despite the presence of large crowds, the distribution was orderly with no security incidents or pauses. Critically, UNRWA staff were permitted to manage the distribution process in its entirety, without the involvement of third parties.

"While intense humanitarian needs remain, UNRWA welcomes this encouraging development and is assured that expanded humanitarian access will be maintained over the coming days. The Agency stands ready to rapidly re-establish services and increase humanitarian assistance while this access remains.”

25 FEBRUARY 2014

"There was no UNRWA distribution in Yarmouk today. Following clear advice from concerned parties that distribution would not be possible, no UNRWA team was present. The total number of food parcels distributed since 18 January stands at 7,043, following the distribution of 235 parcels yesterday.

"UNRWA has received assurances from the parties that the recent agreement permitting renewed and expanded humanitarian access to Yarmouk will be implemented as soon as possible.

"We remain concerned about the situation facing thousands of civilians in the camp, including women and children. They have suffered enough.

24 FeBRUARY 2014

UNRWA’s Commissioner General, Filippo Grandi entered Yarmouk camp during the resumption of UNRWA’s humanitarian aid distribution this morning. He was shocked by the condition of the Palestine refugees he spoke to and the extent of war damage done to homes.

“I am deeply disturbed and shaken by what I observed today. The Palestine refugees with whom I spoke were traumatized by what they have lived through, and many were in evident need of immediate support, particularly food and medical treatment. What I have seen and heard today underlines the timeliness of the UN Security Council resolution 2139 on Humanitarian Access and the need for all sides to implement the resolution without fail. ”

Yarmouk Camp has been sealed since July 2013, resulting in acute and widespread deprivation, including severe malnutrition, while civilian residents are constantly exposed to the threat of death, injuries and trauma of the armed conflict.

23 FeBRUARY 2014

"There was no UNRWA food distribution in Yarmouk, Palestinian refugee camp in Damascus today. The most recent UNRWA food distribution to 280 civilian families took place on Thursday 20 February.

"Also no evacuations of sick, old, children and students took place today.

"UNRWA is in contact with concerned parties who have indicated that UNRWA may be allowed to resume provision of food parcels to civilians inside Yarmouk in the near future. UNRWA stands ready to immediately deliver humanitarian assistance to civilians inside Yarmouk as soon as clearance is granted.

"Civilians in Yarmouk continue to suffer from hunger, harsh conditions, and other consequences of closure and severe curtailment of humanitarian access. UNRWA strongly urges all parties to act immediately to end this suffering by allowing UNRWA to distribute food and other humanitarian supplies, and to indefinitely allow safe, substantial humanitarian access to the civilian population in Yarmouk."

22 FeBRUARY 2014

"There were no UNRWA food distributions in Yarmouk today so the increasingly desperate residents have been deprived of food and other vital supplies yet again.

"No clearance was granted to UNRWA to proceed with the delivery of food parcels as the authorities and concerned parties failed, for a third day, to resolve their differences about aspects of their agreement and about allowing UNRWA to organize more efficient, more dignified distribution arrangements as demanded by civilians in Yarmouk.

"Civilians in Yarmouk continue to suffer from hunger, lack of health care, and extremely harsh conditions. UNRWA calls on all sides to recognize the wretched plight of Yarmouk's civilians and to act immediately to allow UNRWA the humanitarian access needed to mitigate the misery in Yarmouk.

"UNRWA remains hopeful that the discussions between all sides on the ground will result in rapid resumption of food aid deliveries to civilians in Yarmouk.

"UNRWA stands ready to resume its humanitarian work inside Yarmouk the moment it is given clearance."

21 FeBRUARY 2014

"There was no distribution of food or humanitarian assistance yesterday in the Yarmouk refugee camp in Damascus, which is regrettable given the desperate humanitarian plight of the civilian population there. At 15:00 hrs, a few critically sick people were evacuated in arrangements between the authorities and concerned parties. UNRWA is awaiting clearance to resume distribution on 21 February. The parties to the agreement have had lengthy discussions on ensuring implementation of their agreement in ways that enable sustained food distribution, and on allowing UNRWA to resume food distribution and other humanitarian activities from UNRWA facilities inside Yarmouk. The discussions are yet to come to any firm conclusion. UNRWA stands ready to resume humanitarian work inside Yarmouk immediately clearance is given."

20 FeBRUARY 2014

"UNRWA today resumed its food distribution to civilians inside Yarmouk in Damascus after a pause of eleven days. We welcome the support of Syrian authorities and the establishment of an environment on the ground in which our staff have been granted the facilitation they need to begin distributing desperately needed food and other humanitarian supplies to the thousands of civilians in Yarmouk. Since 18th January we had delivered to civilians over 6,500 food parcels of food and other supplies. Those who were fortunate enough to receive this help had started to run out so we need to build on today’s developments and establish an environment in which UNRWA staff and other humanitarian workers can be certain of secure, substantial and permanent humanitarian access to Yarmouk and its civilians.

"We welcome the agreement and arrangements between various groups which helped to create the conditions for UNRWA to resume its humanitarian work in Yarmouk today. Looking to the future, we hope that the positive developments in Yarmouk can give momentum to peaceful dialogue between all parties so that there can be humanitarian access for all civilians in Syria who have suffered enough."

19 FeBRUARY 2014 (Afternoon)

19 February 2014 (Morning)

"UNRWA was again unable to gain access to Yarmouk refugee camp in Damascus for the eleventh consecutive day. We remain ready to resume our suspended food distributions and we hope that the assurances we have been given will soon translate into a situation on the ground that allows us to move ahead. Food is extremely scarce in the camp and the need of the inhabitants of the camp grows more profound with every passing day."

18 February 2014

"UNRWA's food distribution inside Yarmouk remained on hold for the tenth consecutive day.

"As UNRWA was informed in the morning that the distribution will not take place today, the UNRWA team did not visit Yarmouk.

"Nevertheless UNRWA remains hopeful that an unrestricted humanitarian access to the civilian population inside Yarmouk will be granted and that the Agency’s food distribution will resume without further delay. UNRWA strongly appeals to the authorities and concerned parties to consider the immense needs of the civilian population in Yarmouk and allow and facilitate UNRWA’s distribution of food, medicines and other humanitarian assistance.

"UNRWA has been advised that the agreement reached between authorities and armed groups inside Yarmouk needs time to be fully implemented. However, UNRWA strongly appeals to all parties to give the utmost priority to addressing the hunger, malnutrition and protracted suffering of civilians inside Yarmouk. The authorities and concerned parties can do this by allowing UNRWA unrestricted, uninterrupted and substantial humanitarian access to Yarmouk. Civilians in Yarmouk have already suffered greatly and should not have to endure further anguish. A resumption of UNRWA’s humanitarian operations inside Yarmouk is a matter of the greatest urgency."

17 February 2014

"Our food distribution inside Yarmouk remained on hold for the ninth consecutive day. As UNRWA was informed in the morning that the distribution will not take place today, the UNRWA team did not visit Yarmouk.

"Nevertheless we remain hopeful that unrestricted humanitarian access to the civilian population inside Yarmouk will be granted and that the Agency's food distribution will resume without further delay. UNRWA strongly appeals to the authorities and concerned parties to consider the immense needs of the civilian population in Yarmouk and allow and facilitate UNRWA's distribution of food, medicines and other humanitarian assistance.

"UNRWA has been advised that the agreement reached between authorities and armed groups inside Yarmouk needs time to be fully implemented. However, UNRWA strongly appeals to all parties to give the utmost priority to addressing the hunger, malnutrition and the protracted suffering of civilians inside Yarmouk. The authorities and concerned parties can do this by allowing UNRWA unrestricted, uninterrupted and substantial humanitarian access to Yarmouk. Civilians in Yarmouk have already suffered greatly and should not have to endure further anguish. A resumption of UNRWA's humanitarian operations inside Yarmouk is a matter of the greatest urgency."

16 FEBRUARY 2014

"Nevertheless we remain hopeful that unrestricted humanitarian access to the civilian population inside Yarmouk will be granted and that the Agency’s food distribution will resume without further delay. UNRWA strongly appeals to the authorities and concerned parties to consider the immense needs of the civilian population in Yarmouk and allow and facilitate UNRWA’s distribution of food, medicines and other humanitarian assistance.

"UNRWA has been advised that the agreement reached between authorities and armed groups inside Yarmouk needs time to be fully implemented. However, UNRWA strongly appeals to all parties to give the utmost priority to addressing the hunger, malnutrition and the protracted suffering of civilians inside Yarmouk. The authorities and concerned parties can do this by allowing UNRWA unrestricted, uninterrupted and substantial humanitarian access to Yarmouk. Civilians in Yarmouk have already suffered greatly and should not have to endure further anguish. A resumption of UNRWA’s humanitarian operations inside Yarmouk is a matter of the greatest urgency."

15 FEBRUARY 2014

"UNRWA was again unable to distribute food and other humanitarian items today in Yarmouk Camp, Damascus. We have not distributed food there over a week now which is potentially life-threatening for the besieged civilians trapped by the conflict and desperately dependent on UNRWA for food and basic medicines. We have been able to distribute six and a half thousand food parcels since 18 January. But a food parcel lasts an average family about ten days, so those provisions will now be running out. Given the context, such as malnutrition which is reportedly widespread, the fate particularly of women and children is of growing concern.

"The United Nations must have secure, substantial and sustained humanitarian access to the besieged civilians of Yarmouk, whose profound and sustained suffering has come under the spotlight of world attention. We have been encouraged by the cooperation among the parties which allowed us to resume aid to civioians in Yarmouk on 18 January and we trust that we will soon be allowed to continue our distributions, which were temporarily suspended following fighting in the camp during the night of 7/8 March."

14 FEBRUARY 2014

"Following an agreement between the parties to the conflict in Yarmouk, Syrian authorities indicated that there was a likelihood that UNRWA's food distribution would be permitted to recommence on the morning of 13 February. An UNRWA team arrived at the northern Bateekhah entrance at 09:45. The team entered the camp at 10:15 and moved to the distribution area on Rama Street.

"Although the atmosphere remained positive and peaceful throughout the day, UNRWA was requested by parties to the agreement to delay distribution until critical negotiations could be completed. The UNRWA team remained at Rama Street until 15:10, when it became clear that distribution would not recommence that day. No food parcels were distributed.

"UNRWA remains encouraged by the agreement between parties to the conflict in Yarmouk and has received assurances from Syrian authorities that distributions of urgently needed humanitarian assistance will resume in the coming days. The Agency encourages all parties to complete negotiations at the earliest opportunity and permit full humanitarian access to the civilian population remaining in Yarmouk."

13 FEBRUARY 2014

"UNRWA is closely monitoring reports that the evacuation of personnel from Yarmouk is ongoing following a reported deal that was agreed by various groups. We share the hopes of the civilians there that an end to the fighting will bring peace and herald a time of safe, substantial and continuous humanitarian access. UNRWA hopes that any evacuations and any deal reached will be durable and will immediately ease living conditions in Yarmouk.

"Following clashes in northern Yarmouk on the night of 7/8 February and with reported developments on the ground, UNRWA distribution of food parcels and medical supplies was temporarily suspended. Until this point, UNRWA had successfully distributed 6,528 food parcels, 10,000 polio vaccines and a range of other medical supplies to civilians inside the camp, after partial humanitarian access was granted on 18 January. UNRWA remains in constant contact with the authorities and is assured that the current suspension will be lifted soon, pending negotiations between government forces and groups inside Yarmouk. UNRWA stands ready to immediately resume and expand the Yarmouk distribution as soon as clearance is granted."

12 FEBRUARY 2014

11 FEBRUARY 2014

"UNRWA is closely monitoring reports that a deal has been agreed by groups inside Yarmouk. We share the hopes of the civilians there that an end to the fighting will bring peace and herald a time of safe, substantial and continuous humanitarian access. UNRWA hopes that any deal reached will be durable and will immediately ease living conditions in Yarmouk.

"Following clashes in northern Yarmouk on the night of 7/8 February, UNRWA distribution of food parcels and medical supplies was temporarily suspended. Until this point, UNRWA had successfully distributed 6,528 food parcels, 10,000 polio vaccines and a range of other medical supplies to civilians inside the camp, after partial humanitarian access was granted on 18 January. UNRWA remains in constant contact with the authorities and is assured that the current suspension will be lifted soon, pending negotiations between government forces and groups inside Yarmouk. UNRWA stands ready to immediately resume and expand the Yarmouk distribution as soon as clearance is granted."

10 February 2014

"Following clashes in northern Yarmouk on the night of 7/8 February, UNRWA's distribution of food parcels and medical supplies were temporarily suspended. Until this point, UNRWA had successfully distributed 6,528 food parcels, 10,000 polio vaccines and a range of other medical supplies to civilians inside the camp, after partial humanitarian access was granted on 18 January. UNRWA's food distribution was made possible by the authorisation and facilitation of Syrian authorities, who expressed their commitment to easing the hunger and suffering of civilians in Yarmouk. UNRWA remains in constant contact with the authorities and is assured that the current suspension will be lifted soon, pending negotiations between government forces and groups inside Yarmouk. UNRWA stands ready immediately to resume and expand the Yarmouk distribution as soon as clearance is granted."

9 February 2014

"UNRWA food distributions in the Palestinian refugee camp of Yarmouk in Damascus remain on hold and have not resumed since their temporary suspension yesterday due to security concerns. Yesterday, citing clashes close to the distribution area, the authorities advised that UNRWA's food distribution should not continue until the area was secured. UNRWA is continuing to press for authorization for food distributions and remains ready to resume its operations in the camp immediately. There is an urgent imperative for a rapid resumption given the massive humanitarian needs of civilians that are yet to be addressed, the thousands of desperate civilians still to be served, and the fact that those who received UNRWA food parcels in the early part of the distribution have already run out of supplies and must be served again. We again call on all parties immediately to take steps to bring about an environment which allows secure, substantial and permanent humanitarian access in Yarmouk and elsewhere."

8 FEBRUARY 2014

"Clashes have taken place in the northern part of the Palestinian refugee camp in Damascus, Yarmouk, including in the area close to the distribution point where UNRWA has been handing out food parcels. Citing those clashes and the insecurity in the area, the authorities have advised that UNRWA's food distribution should not continue until the area is secured. UNRWA is continuing to press for authorisation to resume food distribution inside Yarmouk."

7 FEBRUARY 2014

"On 7 February an UNRWA team arrived at the northern Bateekhah entrance of Yarmouk Palestinian refugee camp in Damascus at 10:45. Following rumours on 6 February that a rest day would be called, it had not been clear until mid-morning whether distribution would be permitted to proceed. At 11:30, the UNRWA team was cleared to enter Yarmouk and proceeded to the distribution area, with distribution commencing at 12:05.

"The rumours of a rest day and the resulting lack of personnel at the distribution area negatively affected the number of food parcels we were able to distribute which was uncharacteristically low at only 189 for the day. This brings the total of food parcels distributed by UNRWA since we were able to enter the camp on 18 January to 6,438. On instruction of the authorities, distribution finished at 16:00, with the UNRWA team departing Bateekhah at 16:20.

"The UNRWA team observed a steady stream of evacuations over the course of the day, with a total of 77 reported by the authorities. However, UNRWA is not directly involved in this process, providing only medical assistance at point of exit, and has no way to validate this figure."

6 February 2014

"An UNRWA team arrived at the northern Bateekhah entrance to Yarmouk at 10:00 today (5 February). The team immediately moved to the distribution point inside the Yarmouk refugee camp. Distribution began at 11:00 and continued until 17:40. The total number of parcels distributed for the day was 645. This brings the total to 5,839 since 18 January, when UNRWA was permitted access to Yarmouk.

"Authorities on the ground indicated that they may call a rest day tomorrow, 7 February, and will confirm with UNRWA this evening. Regardless, an UNRWA team will remain on standby and return to Yarmouk as soon as clearance is received."

5 February 2014

"We are pleased to announce that UNRWA has secured the formal authorisation for the transfer of 10,000 polio vaccines to Yarmouk Camp in Damascus. This process has been completed without incident and the vaccination of thousands children in the camp is now underway. We would like to thank all those who made this life saving development possible. It demonstrates that access to Yarmouk and all civilians in Syria can be sustained and that given the chance, the UN can make a real difference in the lives of real people – babies, children, women, the sick, the elderly, the dying -- who have endured unimaginable suffering because of this pitiless war.

"UNRWA has also continued with food distribugtions. Yesterday an UNRWA team arrived at the northern Bateekhah entrance to Yarmouk at 10:30 in the morning and immediately moved to the distribution point inside the camp. Distribution of food parcels began at 11:05 and continued at an accelerated rate until 16:50. The total number of parcels distributed for the day was 810. This brings the total to 5,194 since 18 January, when UNRWA was first permitted highly-limited access to Yarmouk.

"Although this figure has not yet surmounted the maximum for any single day, the hourly rate of distribution was significantly increased. UNRWA has also continued to transfer food supplements such as iron in tablet and drop form, multivitamins, rehydration salts and non-prescription analgesics (eg paracetamol)."

4 February 2014

"An UNRWA relief team arrived at the northern Bateekhah entrance to the Yarmouk refugee camp in Damascus at 10:30 this morning, immediately moving to the distribution point inside the camp. Due to adverse weather conditions, freezing winds and light snow, the distribution was slightly delayed.

"Although there were no major interruptions or security incidents, the weather conditions aggravated the severe structural damage to surrounding buildings, with debris falling near the distribution area at 14:30. Nonetheless, UNRWA was able to deliver 675 food parcels today, bringing to 4,384 the total number distributed since we gained access to the camp on 18th January.

"We again stress that there must be long-term support to Yarmouk and its civilians, who have had to endure unimaginable suffering. To make any progress in addressing growing civilian needs, UNRWA's presence and humanitarian assistance work must be permitted to continue and expand over a period of months. There is an absolute necessity for continuous, uninterrupted and substantial humanitarian access to Yarmouk for the long-term."

3 FEBRUARY 2014

"We again stress that there must be long-term support to Yarmouk and its civilians, who have had to endure unimaginable suffering. To make any progress in addressing growing civilian needs, UNRWA’s presence and humanitarian assistance work must be permitted to continue and expand over a period of months. There is an absolute necessity for continuous, uninterrupted and substantial humanitarian access to Yarmouk for the long-term."

2 FEBRUARY 2014

"Today UNRWA distributed 715 food parcels in Yarmouk, the Palestinian refugee camp in Damascus, bringing to 3,709 the number of parcels distributed since we gained access to the camp on 18 January. There have been large crowds and long lines of people waiting for food which attest to the enormous humanitarian need and the desperation of a sizeable number of civilians.

"UNRWA again stresses that there is need for long-term support to Yarmouk and its civilians. To make any progress in addressing these needs, UNRWA’s presence and humanitarian assistance work must be permitted to continue and expand over a period of months, not days. We must accelerate the pace of distribution and while UNRWA appreciates that the authorities on the ground have significantly improved processing to enable us to distribute food parcels to an average of about 900 families each day, further improvements are required to reach many more families each day. Moreover, there is an absolute necessity for continuous, uninterrupted and substantial humanitarian access to Yarmouk for the long-term."

1 FEBRUARY 2014

"So far today, UNRWA workers on the ground in the Yarmouk Palestinian refugee camp in Damascus have distributed 480 food parcels, bringing to 2,624 the total number of food parcels we have distributed since UNRWA gained access to the camp on 18th January. There is a large crowd near the distribution point and the situation is tense. These tense scenes attest to the profound levels of need that pertain in a camp that has been besieged for months and where humanitarian supplies are in very short supply.

"It is important to note that an UNRWA food parcel will feed a family of between five and eight people for ten days. There are approximately eighteen thousand Palestinians in the camp that remain from a pre-conflict population of about 160,000. It is estimated that there are non-Palestinian civilians also trapped in Yarmouk.

"UNRWA has called repeatedly for substantial, secure and permanent access for all civilians living in the camp. We have had confirmed reports of widespread malnutrition and women dying in childbirth for lack of medical services so the need for this access is urgent. UNRWA acknowledges the support of all parties in facilitating the delivery of life saving aid. The continuing delivery of humanitarian assistance in Yarmouk demonstrates that this is possible in other areas where civilians are trapped and besieged."

31 JANUARY 2014

"Today (Friday 31st January) an UNRWA aid convoy entered Yarmouk, the Palestinian refugee camp in Damascus. UNRWA staff began distributing food parcels at 10 a.m. and so far have handed out just under one hundred. This follows the distribution of 1,026 food parcels yesterday.

"UNRWA appreciates that the support of the Government of Syria in authorizing and facilitating this accelerated distribution process. The Agency recognizes the efforts and cooperation of GAPAR, its state counterpart, of the PLO and Palestinian leadership and the Palestinian charities that supported the distribution today.

"UNRWA is encouraged that an increased number of Palestinian civilians have received humanitarian assistance. These distributions demonstrate that the extraordinary suffering in Yarmouk and other closed areas of Syria can be addressed if all parties to the conflict fulfill their obligations to protect civilians.

"If the support of the authorities is maintained, UNRWA stands ready to immediately provide food for the entire Palestinian civilian population of Yarmouk, estimated at 18,000 people. As each food parcel contains food for an average family for only ten days, it is imperative that continuous access to Yarmouk is authorized and supported, so that UNRWA can alleviate the deep and prolonged suffering caused by lack of food in Yarmouk.

"The large crowds of desperate people waiting to receive food parcels attest to the massive needs that have yet to be met. UNRWA has received assurances that Syrian authorities will continue to facilitate and support the delivery of assistance inside Yarmouk. Given today’s events, UNRWA trusts that these assurances will continue to be translated into practical support not only for food distribution, but also for sustained, substantial, humanitarian access to Yarmouk and its civilian residents."

30 JANUARY 2014

"This morning an UNRWA aid convoy including carrying 900 food parcels entered Yarmouk camp in Damascus. Amid chaotic scenes, by noon 248 food parcels had been distributed. The distribution is on- going. This is the first aid to enter the camp since 21 January, by when UNRWA had distributed 138 food parcels. We are encouraged by the delivery of this aid and the cooperation of the parties on the ground. We hope to continue and increase substantially the amount of aid being delivered because the numbers of those needing assistance is in the tens of thousands, including 18,000 Palestinians, among them women and children. And with each passing hours their need increases."

28 JANUARY 2014

“It is now a week since UNRWA was able to deliver desperately needed humanitarian supplies to the besieged refugee camp of Yarmouk in Damascus. We are attempting to take in supplies such as powder milk formula for babies, polio vaccines for infants and basic foodstuffs all of which in the present circumstances must be considered "life saving". We welcomed the assurances of the Syrian authorities, given on 18 January, that they were ready to allow UNRWA to deliver food and other relief into Yarmouk. However, the Agency is extremely disappointed that – at this point - the assurances given by the authorities have not been backed by action on the ground to facilitate the regular, rapid entry into Yarmouk of the substantial quantities of relief required to make a difference to thousands of civilians, who are suffering from malnutrition and hunger, while enduring deplorable humanitarian conditions.

"On 18th January we delivered 71 food parcels; 41 on 20th January and 26 on 21st January making a total of 138 food parcels. Each food parcel feeds a family of up to eight people for about 10 days. Given that there are an estimated 18,000 Palestinian civilians who have received no assistance since Yarmouk was closed over six months ago, the aid allowed into Yarmouk so far is shockingly inadequate to meet the dire needs of these civilians.

"For the sake of the alleviating the grave suffering of civilians in Yarmouk, Syrian authorities and all parties to the Syria conflict that are present in and around Yarmouk must support and facilitate humanitarian access to civilians. They must do so in genuine ways that ensure that substantial quantities of food and other relief items rapidly reach all civilians in Yarmouk."

26 JANUARY 2014

“UNRWA has been unable to deliver desperately needed humanitarian supplies to the besieged refugee camp of Yarmouk in Damascus for five days. These essential supplies include powder milk for babies, polio vaccines for infants and basic foodstuffs.

"We welcomed the assurances of the Syrian authorities, given on 18 January, that they were ready to allow UNRWA to deliver food and other relief into Yarmouk. However, the Agency is extremely disappointed that – at this point - the assurances given by the authorities have not been backed by action on the ground to facilitate the regular, rapid entry into Yarmouk of the substantial quantities of relief required to make a difference to thousands of civilians, who are suffering from malnutrition and hunger, while enduring deplorable humanitarian conditions. Though we do not have a confirmed number of fatalities from starvation, reports of widespread malnutrition and hunger give credence to suggestions that

"Since 18 January, UNRWA has made daily efforts to enter Yarmouk to deliver humanitarian assistance to the civilians trapped there since June 2013. On 18th January we delivered 71 food parcels; 41 on 20th January and 26 on 21st January making a total of 138 food parcels. Each food parcel feeds a family of up to eight people for about 10 days. Given that there are an estimated 18,000 Palestinian civilians who have received no assistance since Yarmouk was closed over six months ago, the aid allowed into Yarmouk so far is shockingly inadequate to meet the dire needs of these civilians.

Further Explanatory Information all on the record:

Each day, UNRWA staff have proceeded to Bateekhah Checkpoint at the northern entrance to Yarmouk with humanitarian relief items, including hundreds of food parcels, 10,000 doses of polio vaccines and supplies of infant milk formula. UNRWA convoys typically arrive at Bateekhah by mid-morning and remain there for several hours or until nightfall.

On the occasions where Checkpoint authorities have granted permission for food parcels and other relief items to enter Yarmouk and be further transported to the distribution point inside Yarmouk, UNRWA has stressed that the pace of distribution is so slow that it is defeating the humanitarian purpose of access. UNRWA has proposed ways to speed up the process of distribution to ensure that as many civilians as possible receive humanitarian assistance. On other occasions, permission has not been granted for food and relief items to enter Yarmouk on the ground that higher level authorization is required or that food deliveries must await the outcome of ongoing negotiations between armed groups inside Yarmouk. On these occasions, UNRWA staff have continuously negotiated with check point authorities, striving to persuade them to give priority to humanitarian needs and to allow relief items to enter Yarmouk.

The staff of our Syria Office will continue to establish a daily presence at Bateekhah as long as the authorities and safety conditions allow, and we will not relent in pressing the authorities to allow substantial relief supplies to be transported into Yarmouk and distributed to civilians there. UNRWA will persist towards this goal for as long as it takes to succeed.

21 JANUARY 2014

On 10:50 at 21 January, an UNRWA relief team returned to the northern Bateekhah entrance of Yarmouk. At 11:30, the team was permitted by government forces to enter the camp under the same government clearances that had allowed access for UNRWA staff on 18 and 20 January. UNRWA was permitted to bring 109 food parcels, 16 cans of halawa and 20 bags of rice (500g) to the Sama Street distribution point, approximately 1km south of the Bateekhah entrance and approximately 100m north of the front line. These relief supplies and the UNRWA team arrived at 11:50, ready for immediate distribution.

Distributions on 18 and 20 January had been extremely slow, the result of a highly-time consuming process of identification and list-checking by government forces at the distribution point. Numerous civilians had been turned away and only a fraction of the available relief had been distributed each day. With this in mind, the mission leader reiterated UNRWA’s appeal for full humanitarian access to the area, including provision of relief items to all civilians reaching the distribution point. As on previous days, the General Officer present indicated that this request was being considered by his senior commander.

Despite pressure from UNRWA staff, by 12:45 the distribution had not started.

The UNRWA mission leader returned to the Sama Street distribution point at 14:20, to find 9 vulnerable civilians being evacuated across the frontline and was informed by government officers that distribution could not begin until this process was complete. Distribution began at 14:45 but was interrupted again when an injured Palestinian male unsuccessfully tried to seek clearance to leave Yarmouk. Distribution resumed and continued until 16:45, when government forces closed the administrative station. Only 26 food parcels were distributed in total. The UNRWA team departed Yarmouk at 17:00 and returned safely to the Syria Field Office at 18:00.

In addition to the specific delays and interruptions mentioned, the very low rate of distribution can be attributed to the same obstacles present on 20 January:

• Military personnel in attendance had been passed a list of 5,000 Yarmouk residents by a Palestinian charity – any person approaching the distribution point who was not on this list was turned away. UNRWA staff were informed that this approach had been ordered by senior commanders. As a result, vulnerable civilians were regularly turned back by the government administration point.

• The list-checking process conducted by military personnel was extremely time consuming and, despite UNRWA protestations, would not be accelerated.

• Location of the distribution point in the government controlled area required residents of Yarmouk to cross the front line to receive assistance. Although the security situation was relatively calm, this location exposed residents to a higher degree of risk than would have been present if distribution could take place closer to where they lived.

UNRWA will continue to raise these issues at the highest levels with the Government of Syria, while continuing to distribute from the distribution point inside Yarmouk in the coming days. The UNRWA distribution team will return to the Sama Street distribution point inside Yarmouk tomorrow, 22 January.

19 JANUARY 2014

“The 200 food parcels which were delivered to Yarmouk today would provide 33% of the caloric requirements of 1,000 people for one month.

"To explain, UNRWA packs food parcels to feed a family of five for a month in combination with cash assistance (which accounts for the other 67%). Since Yarmouk residents do not receive cash assistance because of the situation in the camp, and if we assume that this is the only food they receive, it would also be accurate to say that 200 parcels would provide 100% of the caloric requirements of 333 people (e.g. 1000/3) for one month.”

18 January 2014

“This morning, UNRWA was requested by the Syrian Authorities to support an agreement between Palestinian factions to deliver humanitarian assistance into Yarmouk through the northern route into the camp.

"UNRWA was informed that this agreement envisages a trial phase, during which an initial consignment of 200 food parcels would be delivered today inside Yarmouk. The Syrian authorities sought UNRWA’s support as the neutral, humanitarian agency with a mandate for Palestine refugees. It is important to emphasise that the contribution of UNRWA was a small contribution compared to that of others, such as the Palestinian groups, to test an arrangement.

"UNRWA responded positively by donating the requested food parcels – not directly to the Palestinian factions – but through an intermediary. In so doing, UNRWA laid down an express condition that the food parcels must be distributed exclusively to civilians in need of assistance and that no part of the aid would be handed over or distributed to, or utilized by fighters or by people who are not civilians. UNRWA received assurances that the food parcels would be distributed and used in a neutral manner for humanitarian purposes.

"UNRWA’s positive response is consistent with the Agency’s commitment to doing everything possible to mitigate the harsh conditions in Yarmouk and to support and assist the civilian residents of Yarmouk through neutral humanitarian action. However, in this instance, UNRWA is playing only a support role. Today’s effort is not an UNRWA convoy and UNRWA is not involved or engaged in the transport of the food parcels into Yarmouk or its distribution inside Yarmouk.

"UNRWA is closely monitoring the situation in Yarmouk and is continuing to press Syrian authorities for safe, regular humanitarian access into Yarmouk. UNRWA will review and carefully weigh the outcomes of today’s effort, particular as regards the extent to which the food parcels reached civilians in need.

Regardless of the outcome of today’s effort, UNRWA’s position remains that Yarmouk must be open to safe, regular humanitarian access; that the civilian residents of Yarmouk must be granted free, safe movement; and that all sides to the Syria conflict must comply with their international obligations to protect Syrian and Palestinian civilians in Yarmouk and across Syria.”

You are here

Yarmouk Updates from our spokesperson Chris Gunness

31 March 2015

30 March 2015

29 March 2015

28 March 2015

27 March 2015

26 March 2015

25 March 2015

24 March 2015

22 - 23 March 2015

21 March 2015

20 March 2015

19 March 2015

18 March 2015

17 March 2015

16 March 2015

15 March 2015

14 March 2015

13 March 2015

12 March 2015

11 March 2015

10 March 2015

9 March 2015

8 March 2015

7 March 2015

6 March 2015

5 March 2015

4 March 2015

3 March 2015

2 March 2015

27 February - 1 March 2015

26 February 2015

25 February 2015

24 February 2015

23 February 2015

20 - 22 February 2015

19 February 2015

18 February 2015

17 February 2015

16 February 2015

15 February 2015

13 - 14 February 2015

12 February 2015

11 February 2015

10 February 2015

9 February 2015

8 February 2015

5 - 7 February 2015

4 February 2015

3 February 2015

31 January - 2 February 2015

27 - 30 January 2015

26 January 2015

23-25 January 2015

22 January 2015

21 January 2015

20 January 2015

19 January 2015

15 - 18 January 2015

14 January 2015

13 January 2015

12 January 2015

11 January 2015

10 January 2015

9 January 2015

8 January 2015

7 January 2015

6 January 2015

31 December 2014 - 5 January 2015

30 December 2014

29 December 2014

28 December 2014

27 December 2014

26 December 2014

25 December 2014

24 December 2014

23 December 2014

22 December 2014

18 - 21 December 2014