The humanitarian crisis in Gaza is deepening as thousands of aid trucks are stranded outside the enclave, unable to deliver lifesaving food, water, and medical supplies to those who need them most. A third of the population is on the brink of starvation, with hundreds dying of malnutrition.
Despite Israel’s claims that it allows an average of 70 trucks per day into Gaza, aid agencies say the reality is far more complicated. The Israeli military controls almost every part of the aid distribution process, causing delays and denials at every turn.
A U.N. spokesperson said the Kerem Shalom crossing, where most aid enters Gaza, is not a simple drive-thru operation but is plagued by security impediments and bureaucratic hurdles. The situation is further complicated by deadly shootings at aid distribution sites and civil disorder exacerbated by Israel’s relentless bombing campaign.
The World Food Programme (WFP) has reported that half of its requests for aid collection have been denied, while convoys are often delayed by up to 46 hours before receiving final approval to travel along the strip. This has led to people ambushing aid trucks, posing a danger to workers.
The U.N. Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs described the situation as “safe, sustained access” being missing, with workers facing constant danger and critical items being routinely blocked. At least 16 people were killed northwest of Gaza City while waiting for aid on Friday.
The crisis is not a new phenomenon, but it has worsened since Israel’s bombing campaign began months ago. The police force in Gaza was crippled by the bombing, leaving security forces unable to provide protection, and desperation among the public increased.
Aid agencies are calling for an end to bureaucratic hurdles and for Israel to allow them to operate at scale without interference. The situation is a stark reminder of the need for safe and sustained access to humanitarian aid in crisis situations.
Source: https://www.nbcnews.com/world/middle-east/gaza-food-starvation-aid-distribution-israel-rcna221225