Gaza faces a severe humanitarian crisis following more than 60 days of a total blockade imposed by Israel, halting the entry of humanitarian aid including food, fuel, and medicine. The comprehensive siege has resulted in widespread shortages impacting the roughly two million residents trapped inside the enclave.
Doctors report the situation has become "catastrophic." The lack of essential supplies contributes to a surge in preventable illnesses and an increase in deaths, particularly among vulnerable populations like children and patients with chronic conditions.
Israel maintains its blockade is lawful and necessary, asserting that the release of aid is contingent on Hamas freeing hostages captured during the conflict. Israeli officials contend that sufficient provisions remain available within Gaza.
However, humanitarian organizations and European nations have criticized Israel's policy, describing the halt in aid as a tool used for political leverage. They warn the blockade may violate international law, compounding the effects of a partial blockade in place for nearly two decades after Hamas gained control of the territory.
Reporting from outlets like Al Jazeera highlight the continued fighting and the impact on civilians. News reports include accounts of Israeli forces killing 24 individuals and targeting rescue workers as the siege persists.
In response to the ongoing conflict, Israel has called up tens of thousands of additional reservists, signaling a potential expansion of military operations despite international calls for a lasting ceasefire.
Further incidents have been reported affecting aid efforts. An aid ship bound for Gaza reportedly sustained damage from two drones near Malta, with the organizing Non-Governmental Organization blaming Israel for the attack.
The United Nations recently rejected a proposed Israeli plan regarding aid delivery into Gaza, according to reports, signaling continued disagreement on how to address the worsening crisis.
Muneer Alboursh, the director general of Gaza’s health ministry, described the dire reality for medical staff and patients seeking help. “There’s no advice I can give them,” he stated. “In most cases, those patients die.”
