The World Food Programme (WFP) is experiencing a critical shortage of supplies in Gaza as a result of Israel’s complete blockade, which was put in place in early March. The blockade has stopped all humanitarian shipments, leaving civilians without essential supplies.
The United Nations (UN) reports that Gaza is on the verge of famine. Essential items such as flour, sugar, and cooking oil are nearly depleted, leaving civilians more vulnerable.
Impact of the Blockade
On March 2, Israel closed off Gaza completely, shutting out food, medicine, and other necessities. The WFP’s final shipment made it to Gaza’s hot meal kitchens, but nothing has come in since. By March 31, WFP-supported bakeries had shut down because of a lack of flour and other ingredients. Markets in Gaza are bare, and individuals no longer have access to food.
Israel has not indicated any intention to lift the blockade despite the deteriorating crisis. Israeli Defense Forces chief Lieutenant General Eyal Zamir stated that Israel would step up military action if there is no ceasefire or hostage release.
The blockade has prevented 116,000 metric tonnes of food aid from entering Gaza, sufficient to feed Gaza for several months. The refusal to let aid into Gaza is exacerbating the crisis, and civilians are suffering the worst of it.
UN and WFP Urge Immediate Action
Israel’s airstrikes have also destroyed critical humanitarian infrastructure. At least 36 machines critical to relief efforts, such as water trucks and sewer suction tanks, have been destroyed. This has critically affected water and sanitation services, raising the risk of disease in an already desperate situation.
The UN and WFP have made an urgent appeal for the borders of Gaza to be opened to humanitarian supplies. They urge Israel to fulfill its duty in international law and allow aid into vulnerable civilians. The WFP is asking directly for access in an emergency fashion to import commodities, urging both sides to act with urgency in alleviating civilians’ suffering.
Increasing Famine Risk
The Gaza situation is deteriorating fast, with famine now a looming threat. The combination of the blockade, airstrikes, and destruction of infrastructure has brought Gaza to the brink of starvation.
Humanitarian agencies warn that the international community needs to act quickly to end the blockade and provide food and medical supplies. Without action, the results will be catastrophic.
WFP and other UN agencies continue calling for untrammeled access to Gaza. The crisis can only worsen while the siege holds, with more danger to people facing a large-scale famine. The future of Gaza could continue to remain bleak unless international cooperation ensures supplies get through.
