New York, Feb 2 (Petra) - The United Nations on Monday welcomed the reopening of the Rafah crossing, emphasizing the need to allow civilians to leave and return to Gaza voluntarily and safely, in accordance with international law.

UN Secretary-General spokesperson Stéphane Dujarric stressed the importance of humanitarian supplies entering Gaza in sufficient quantities and with minimal obstacles through Rafah and all other crossings.

Meanwhile, the UN Resident Coordinator in the occupied Palestinian territory, Ramiz Alakbarov, said that reopening Rafah in both directions is an important step aligned with agreements reached under the first phase of the ceasefire.

Alakbarov emphasized the need to do more to increase and safely expand humanitarian access on a sustainable basis.

The World Health Organization supported medical evacuation efforts in Gaza on Monday, referring to the departure of a number of patients and their companions directly to Egypt, while others traveled via Israel-controlled Karam Abu Salem crossing.

Dujarric said several UN agencies conducted a preparatory mission to assess road conditions and issues related to the medical evacuation journey, while the Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs set up a reception area at Nasser Hospital in Khan Younis with experts in psychosocial support and protection, along with food, information, and internet services to assist those returning to Gaza via Rafah.

He also referred to reports of violence in Gaza over the past two days, expressing deep concern over civilian deaths and Israeli airstrikes.

//Petra// AF