The Israeli blockade on Gaza has led to a severe humanitarian crisis, with all UN-supported bakeries closed and markets empty of fresh vegetables. Hospitals are rationing painkillers and antibiotics as aid agencies call for world powers to force Israel to allow essential goods into the territory.
A month since Israel closed its crossings to Gaza, the situation is dire. The blockade has caused widespread shortages, including fuel, flour, and other staples. Bakeries, which were previously supported by the UN’s World Food Programme, have been forced to close due to lack of supplies.
“The closure of bakeries is a catastrophe,” said Abu Alaa Jaffar, a grandfather from Gaza City. “Bread is the most important staple for us. Without it, people don’t know how to deal with the situation.”
The UN has dismissed Israel’s claim that there is enough food in Gaza to last its residents for a long time, citing concerns over the rapid depletion of aid supplies. The World Health Organisation warns that vital medical supplies are dwindling, including anaesthesia, antibiotics, and fluids for wounded patients.
The international health charity Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) has called on Israel to halt what it calls “collective punishment of Palestinians”, citing cases where patients are being treated without pain relief. The situation is further exacerbated by the ongoing conflict, which has resulted in over 1,000 Palestinian casualties and hundreds more wounded.
Arab mediators continue to try to resurrect the ceasefire, but there have been no signs of an imminent breakthrough or an end to the Israeli blockade. As the humanitarian crisis deepens, aid agencies are urging world powers to take action to address the dire situation in Gaza.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cd9lnl4xdqdo