After an assessment by the World Food Program (WFP), the hunger crisis in Gaza has reached a critical point
With nine out of every 10 Palestinians in northern Gaza possibly consuming less than one meal a day.
The situation is heightened by displacement, lack of sanitation, and the threat of disease, affecting 40% of Gaza’s population under the age of 15.
The need for a sustainable ceasefire
Addressing the urgent need for intervention, experts emphasise the importance of a sustainable ceasefire to prevent another generation of children from living under the constant threat of war. The focus is on eliminating the actions of Hamas, including rocket attacks and commitments to terror.
Efforts have been made to provide immediate relief, including maritime aid shipments by the Royal Navy and airdrops by France and Jordan. However, the magnitude of the crisis requires more aid to be delivered, especially through land routes.
Aid Bottlenecks and Solutions
Despite the increase in the number of trucks entering Gaza daily, it falls significantly short of the required 500, with the current figure at around 200. A model for humanitarian affairs in the occupied Palestinian territories has been appointed to identify and address these bottlenecks.
Extended opening hours at crossing points, such as the Nitzana screening facility and Kerem Shalom checkpoint, could facilitate faster and more efficient aid entry into Gaza. Opening Kerem Shalom seven days a week is proposed, and additional routes, including the land corridor from Jordan into Gaza, should be explored to maximise aid delivery.
Consistency in goods allowed
Clear and transparent explanations from Israel about restrictions will enable governments, aid organisations, and the private sector to scale up aid considerably.
Israel is urged to restore water supply lines, reconnect electricity supplies, and ensure sufficient fuel is allowed to power critical infrastructure like bakeries.
Support for UN Distribution Efforts
Supporting the United Nations’ distribution efforts is important. Measures include issuing more visas and importing vehicles for UN staff to enter Gaza, ensuring aid reaches those in need.
Practical solutions are required to save lives. While the steps may seem technical, they offer tangible ways to address the immediate crisis and pave the way for a more sustainable future in Gaza.
