Gaza - New York: Europe and the Arabs

Unexploded ordnance remains pose a long-term threat in Gaza, hindering future activities, reconstruction and recovery in the Strip, which requires an urgent response once the current war ends, according to Mr. Takuto Kubo, Chief of the Programme Management and Support Section at the United Nations Mine Action Service (UNMAS).
In an interview with UN News, Mr. Takuto Kubo spoke about the efforts of the United Nations to address the risks of mines and unexploded ordnance in the Strip. He pointed out that UNMAS conducted 379 explosive hazard assessments and accompanied 271 humanitarian convoys to Gaza, where its teams observed explosive remnants of unexploded shells and rockets.
He said that UNMAS deploys seven officers specialized in ordnance disposal, including two officers from non-governmental organizations, in addition to risk education assistants. Despite the risk assessment and education efforts, ordnance disposal remains currently impossible due to security conditions.
Efforts focus on raising awareness of the dangers of munitions and placing signs to warn civilians, with support from organizations such as UNICEF and local partners. Kubo noted that challenges include insecurity, staff displacement, lack of equipment and power and communications outages. He said UNMAS is also providing support in the West Bank due to the increasing use of explosive materials in incursions.