The UN World Food Programme (WFP) has declared that it has completely exhausted its food stocks in Gaza after the blockade imposed by Israel has persisted for seven weeks. On the last remaining supplies, the WFP stated, “Today, WFP delivered its last remaining food stocks to hot meal kitchens.” These kitchens, which provide vital meals to the population, are projected to run out of food within days. The blockade that began on March 2 and resumed military operations has left over 2.1 million civilians in dire need of assistance. The UN stresses that Israel must comply with international laws ensuring humanitarian aid, while Israel claims to be upholding these laws.
UN Food Aid Runs Out in Gaza Amid Ongoing Israeli Blockade
UN Food Aid Runs Out in Gaza Amid Ongoing Israeli Blockade
The UN World Food Programme warns of a humanitarian crisis as Gaza's food aid supply dwindles to zero due to the Israeli blockade.
The supply shortage has exacerbated malnutrition rates; recent reports highlight a troubling rise in acute malnutrition cases among children. There are also severe deficits in medical supplies, risking further casualties as hospitals struggle to cope with the aftermath of violence. The situation is critical, with food prices surging as much as 1,400% since the blockade, disproportionately affecting the most vulnerable, such as children and pregnant women.
WFP directors have stated that the blockade's continuation threatens the already fragile gains made during a brief ceasefire. Meanwhile, more than 116,000 tonnes of food assistance are ready for delivery, contingent upon the reopening of Gaza's border crossings. Humanitarian officials report that without immediate action, the ongoing crisis will only deepen.
Gaza's humanitarian situation has led to extreme measures among residents as they face dwindling resources; bartering and begging have become common as families struggle for basic food needs. The Israeli foreign ministry, however, maintains that aid is not in shortage, rejecting criticisms by other nations regarding the blockade. The ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas continues to claim lives, further complicating the already dire humanitarian landscape in Gaza.
The latest developments underline the urgent need for diplomatic solutions and humanitarian access to avert disaster for millions caught in the crossfire of this protracted conflict.
WFP directors have stated that the blockade's continuation threatens the already fragile gains made during a brief ceasefire. Meanwhile, more than 116,000 tonnes of food assistance are ready for delivery, contingent upon the reopening of Gaza's border crossings. Humanitarian officials report that without immediate action, the ongoing crisis will only deepen.
Gaza's humanitarian situation has led to extreme measures among residents as they face dwindling resources; bartering and begging have become common as families struggle for basic food needs. The Israeli foreign ministry, however, maintains that aid is not in shortage, rejecting criticisms by other nations regarding the blockade. The ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas continues to claim lives, further complicating the already dire humanitarian landscape in Gaza.
The latest developments underline the urgent need for diplomatic solutions and humanitarian access to avert disaster for millions caught in the crossfire of this protracted conflict.
