Israel announced a pause in military activity last Sunday to allow more aid into Gaza, following international outrage over widespread starvation and deaths from malnutrition caused by its offensive and aid restrictions. However, humanitarian organizations say the amount of aid entering the enclave is not enough, and without more food, growing numbers of Palestinians will die from hunger.
Airdrops, distribution by the US- and Israel-backed Gaza Humanitarian Foundation, and through the UN and other aid organizations using newly formed “humanitarian corridors” are the main ways aid enters Gaza. The Gaza Humanitarian Foundation has been widely condemned for its limited distribution, with around 1 million meals distributed over the past week, averaging out to half a meal per person per day.
The Israeli military branch responsible for overseeing aid into Gaza reported that 1,200 aid trucks entered the enclave over the past week, but hundreds remain inside waiting to be picked up. Before Israel’s offensive began, around 500 trucks carrying aid were entering daily. The World Food Program said only two-thirds of the requested food had been approved as of Thursday.
Humanitarian organizations say Israeli restrictions have hampered efforts to distribute limited aid and need clearer approvals and no armed presence from Israeli military members near humanitarian convoys, food distributions, and operations.
Experts warn that a gradual entry of aid is not enough to prevent famine and deaths. The Integrated Food Security Phase Classification said the “worst-case scenario” was now playing out in Gaza under Israel’s military offensive. It called for “immediate action” to end hostilities and allow an unimpeded humanitarian response.
Since late May, over 1,300 Palestinians have been killed while seeking food, with scores of others killed by Israeli forces waiting for or trying to reach aid distribution points. The hunger crisis in Gaza is seen as human-made and the result of policies imposed by Israel.
Source: https://www.nbcnews.com/world/middle-east/gaza-how-much-aid-israel-restrictions-rcna222163