Nearly 1.9 million people in Gaza are at risk due to inadequate shelter and severe winter conditions
Police officers stand guard at the main entrance gate of the Ministry of External Affairs in Islamabad. Photo: Archive
The foreign ministers of Pakistan, Egypt, Indonesia, Jordan, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Turkiye and the United Arab Emirates expressed concern over the worsening humanitarian situation in the Gaza Strip, citing winter conditions, damaged infrastructure and shortages of essential supplies.
In a joint statement, ministers said almost 1.9 million people were living in inadequate shelters, including children, women, the elderly and medically vulnerable individuals. The statement praised UN agencies, including UNRWA, and international NGOs for their continued relief efforts, and called for sustained and unrestricted humanitarian operations.
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Joint statement by the Foreign Ministers of Pakistan, Egypt, Indonesia, Jordan, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Turkiye and the United Arab Emirates https://t.co/xaUMMjjGxW
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— Ministry of Foreign Affairs – Pakistan (@ForeignOfficePk) January 2, 2026
The statement expressed support for UN Security Council Resolution 2803 and referred to broader international efforts related to ceasefire agreements and recovery in Gaza. He called for immediate relief measures, including durable shelters, medical supplies, clean water and restoration of damaged infrastructure, and urged opening the Rafah crossing in both directions to facilitate humanitarian access.
On the ground, the situation remains dire. More than 52,000 Palestinians have been killed, including more than 18,000 children; more than 90% of homes in Gaza have been destroyed; 84% of hospitals and practically all schools have been destroyed; and two million people have been forcibly displaced.
The United Nations has warned of an increased risk of famine in Gaza. Procedures related to humanitarian access have also been raised before the International Court of Justice in cases brought by several States. Analysts have warned of serious concerns regarding international humanitarian law, as legal reviews remain ongoing.
China completes military exercises around Taiwan
AFP reported that China recently held military exercises around Taiwan, including live-fire drills following the sale of US weapons to Taipei. Beijing said the exercises were aimed at countering what it called “Taiwan independence” activities, while Japan, Australia and other countries expressed concern that the exercises could raise regional tensions. Taiwan adjusted its defense posture and said such exercises posed risks to regional security.
Responding to questions on Taiwan, Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Tahir Andrabi reiterated Pakistan’s support for the one-China principle and described Taiwan as an inalienable part of China, adding that Pakistan would continue to support China on issues of its core interests.
