Israel's Humanitarian Blockade on Gaza Amid US Pressure
As the humanitarian situation in Gaza deteriorates, Israel continues to maintain a stringent blockade despite increasing pressure from the United States and international humanitarian organizations. According to data from Israeli authorities, the volume of humanitarian aid reaching the 2.3 million residents of Gaza is at an annual low, with only 33,844 tons of aid entering the territory in October, a stark decline from 137,137 tons in April. The situation has worsened as Israeli military operations intensify, particularly in the northern regions, where civilians face attacks and forced displacement.
The Israeli government has acknowledged its failure to meet US demands to improve humanitarian conditions, which were set following a letter from President Joe Biden's administration. As the deadline approaches, Israeli officials claim to have implemented
but significant issues remain unresolved due to security concerns. Humanitarian organizations, including Oxfam and Save the Children, report that conditions in Gaza are nearing famine, with 800,000 civilians suffering from severe food shortages.
New Crossing Point Opens Amid Humanitarian Crisis
In a recent development, Israel announced the opening of the Kissufim crossing point for humanitarian aid, a move seen as a response to mounting international pressure. This new route aims to facilitate the delivery of aid trucks into Gaza, coinciding with the impending deadline set by the US for increased humanitarian support. However, despite this announcement, the overall volume of aid remains critically low, with only 12,566 tons allowed into Gaza so far in November.
The humanitarian crisis is exacerbated by skyrocketing prices on the black market, with gas prices soaring by 2,612% and gasoline by 1,315%. The UN has warned that the combination of food system collapse and limited humanitarian access is leading to increased hunger and malnutrition among the population. Reports indicate that Israeli military operations in the north are using hunger as a tactic, further complicating the dire situation for civilians.
As the conflict continues, the UN refugee agency has criticized Israel for allowing only 30 trucks of aid per day, which is just 6% of what is needed to meet the population's basic needs. The ongoing blockade and military actions have left many areas, particularly in the north, with extremely limited access to essential supplies, raising alarms about the imminent threat of famine.
