The European Union has announced it is giving an extra €68 million ($73m) to provide desperately needed aid to Palestinians in Gaza, AFP reports.

“In light of the continued deterioration of the severe humanitarian crisis in Gaza, and the steady rise of needs on the ground, the (European) Commission is stepping up its funding to support Palestinians affected by the ongoing war,” an EU statement said.

“This support brings total EU humanitarian assistance to €193m for Palestinians in need inside Gaza and across the region in 2024.”

The EU said the new aid would focus on food deliveries, clean water, sanitation and shelters, and would be channelled through local partners on the ground.