Israel’s aid cutoff to Gaza has triggered a humanitarian crisis, with prices skyrocketing and aid groups scrambling to distribute dwindling supplies. The 2 million residents of Gaza rely on trucked-in food and aid, but the cut-off has left them without basic necessities.
The World Food Program (WFP) warned that its existing stocks will last only two weeks, forcing it to reduce ration sizes to serve as many people as possible. Fuel reserves are also running low, with bakeries and kitchens struggling to operate. The Norwegian Refugee Council reported that there’s no major stockpile of tents, leaving shelter materials in short supply.
At least seven infants have died from hypothermia due to lack of shelter materials and warm clothes. Aid workers predict a “catastrophic result” if the aid freeze continues. Humanitarian agencies are rushing to deliver supplies, but the progress relies on the flow of aid continuing.
Prices of vegetables, flour, and other essential goods have risen sharply, with sellers increasing prices by as much as 500%. The International Rescue Committee has 6.7 tons of medicines waiting to enter Gaza, but its delivery is uncertain due to the closure. Palestinians fear a repeat of the devastating effects of previous conflicts, urging Israel to find alternative solutions to extend the truce.
The situation in Gaza highlights the devastating impact of the ongoing conflict and the need for urgent aid and support to mitigate the humanitarian crisis.
Source: https://www.pbs.org/newshour/world/supplies-dwindle-prices-soar-in-gaza-as-israels-aid-freeze-continues