Israel’s Defense Minister Israel Katz has declared that no humanitarian aid will enter the Gaza Strip, intensifying concerns over a deepening humanitarian crisis in the region. The blockade comes as Israel resumes intense military operations following the collapse of a ceasefire agreement.
“Israel’s policy is clear: No humanitarian aid will enter Gaza, and blocking this aid is one of the main pressure levers preventing Hamas from using it as a tool with the population,” Katz stated. His remarks underscore Israel’s stance on using the blockade as a strategic measure against Hamas.
The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) has issued a grave warning about the situation. “The humanitarian situation is now likely the worst it has been in recent times,” OCHA reported. Essential supplies such as medical equipment, fuel, and clean water are dwindling rapidly due to the closure of border crossings and internal restrictions within Gaza.
“Due to the closure of the crossings compounded by restrictions within Gaza, dwindling supplies have forced aid workers to ration and reduce deliveries to make the most of the remaining stocks,” OCHA added, highlighting the dire straits faced by the 2.4 million Palestinians residing in Gaza.
The ceasefire, which had temporarily halted hostilities, fell apart over disagreements on its implementation. Since then, intensified military actions have led to the displacement of hundreds of thousands of people, exacerbating the already critical humanitarian situation.
As the conflict escalates, international organizations and local communities are calling for immediate action to address the urgent needs of those affected and to find a pathway to lasting peace in the region.
