Prices for basic necessities in the Gaza Strip have surged over 100-fold, leaving many residents struggling to stay afloat. The recent closure of the Kerem Shalom, Erez, and Zikim crossings by Israel has halted the delivery of essential humanitarian aid, including thousands of tents and vital supplies, according to the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA).
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced the blockade on Sunday, aiming to pressure Hamas into agreeing to a new ceasefire and hostage release deal proposed by the United States. This move has left UN emergency relief coordinator Tom Fletcher “indeed alarmed”, emphasizing the urgent need for lifesaving aid to reach those in need.
Antonio Guterres, the UN Secretary-General, has called on all parties to prevent further hostilities and ensure that humanitarian assistance flows uninterrupted into Gaza. The UN Children's Fund echoed these sentiments, warning that the stoppage of aid could have devastating effects on children and families already struggling to survive.
As the situation escalates, OCHA and its partners are diligently assessing the available stocks within Gaza to mitigate the crisis. The international community watches closely, hoping for a swift resolution to prevent further suffering.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
