A convoy of humanitarian aid trucks carrying flour was ambushed by gunmen in central Gaza on Thursday, sparking a firefight between Hamas security officials and Israeli drones. The incident underscores the deteriorating security situation in Gaza, where governance has collapsed and lawlessness has spread.
Gaza has been under an 11-week blockade, but a limited amount of food has trickled in recently. However, the influx is not enough to meet the needs of the population, with reports of widespread hunger and desperation. Bakeries were forced to close on Thursday due to overcrowded conditions, while aid distribution was halted.
The World Food Programme (WFP) reported that 15 of its aid trucks were looted overnight, highlighting the challenges in delivering supplies to those in need. International agencies have warned that the growing insecurity is hampering the delivery of food and medical supplies.
The UN has called for an immediate shift from distributing baked bread to handing out flour directly at a rate of one sack per family, citing concerns about safety and efficiency. Locals argue that this approach would allow families to bake at home or in tents, making it safer than waiting at overcrowded aid centers.
The situation in Gaza is dire, with widespread famine looming over the population. The UN has reported that 400 trucks had been cleared to enter Gaza this week, but only 115 supplies were collected. Humanitarian groups have warned that the amount of food entering Gaza is not close to what is needed to feed the 2.1 million people living there.
As the situation continues to deteriorate, residents are reporting difficulties in accessing basic necessities like electricity, water, and medicine. The IDF has maintained its blockade, citing security concerns, but critics argue that it is exacerbating the humanitarian crisis.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cx2ekv9ez43o