Palestinians yearn for ‘a return to normal life,’ says top Middle East peace envoy

The UN is continuing efforts to support Palestinians in Gaza amid major challenges to humanitarian access, reconstruction and the restoration of essential services, according to Ramiz Alakbarov, Acting UN Special Coordinator for the Middle East Peace Process.Speaking to UN News on the margins of the UN General Assembly High-Level Week, Mr. Alakbarov said UN agencies and humanitarian partners were working to address urgent needs including water, sanitation, shelter and healthcare, while also supporting efforts to remove debris, restore infrastructure and provide assistance to vulnerable communities.Despite progress in delivering essential humanitarian assistance, significant obstacles remain, he said, including restrictions affecting humanitarian access and the entry of materials needed for reconstruction.‘A return to normal life’Mr. Alakbarov said the needs of people in Gaza extend beyond immediate humanitarian assistance, with communities seeking better living conditions and the opportunity to rebuild their lives.He highlighted the importance of restoring water infrastructure and medical services, supporting education and creating opportunities for people to rebuild both homes and...