UNITED NATIONS: The humanitarian crisis in Gaza is deepening at an alarming pace, with UN agencies warning of growing hunger and mass starvation amid restricted aid access and soaring food prices. Despite Israel allowing some aid in since May, only 6,000 tonnes of wheat flour have entered the war-torn territory—far short of the 10,000 tonnes urgently needed, according to the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA).
“The only way to address the situation on the ground is by re-opening additional crossings,” said OCHA’s Olga Cherevko from Khan Younis, adding that the supply must be “unlimited and unfettered,” and include not just food, but fuel, shelter materials and other essentials.
UN Secretary-General António Guterres and Humanitarian Affairs chief Tom Fletcher have described the incoming aid as a “trickle” or “a drop in the ocean.” With more than two million people struggling to survive, Gaza is now among the most expensive places in the world to live. Flour prices have hit 100 shekels per kilo—about $29—while a loaf of bread costs seven shekels.
“Sometimes I cry when my hungry children ask for a piece of bread,” said Nimir Ghazal, a mother of four. “We live in a state of constant hunger.”
The collapse of the banking infrastructure has worsened the crisis. With banks shut since October, civilians are forced to access pensions or salaries through private agents, sometimes losing up to 50 per cent in commissions.
The World Food Programme (WFP) confirmed that starvation has driven people to intercept aid convoys. On June 10 alone, 59 trucks carrying wheat flour were overrun by desperate civilians. A second convoy of 21 trucks faced a 36-hour clearance delay.
“To stave off starvation, stabilise markets and calm desperation, we need to consistently support the entire population with basic food requirements every month,” said the WFP.
The UN agency for Palestine refugees (UNRWA) also raised alarm over the dangers faced by civilians at US- and Israel-backed aid distribution points, calling them “death traps” that have led to casualties and violence.
“This is the only way to avert mass starvation, including among one million children,” said UNRWA head Philippe Lazzarini, calling for safe and unhindered humanitarian access and an immediate ceasefire.
UNICEF, meanwhile, highlighted the plight of children, including a five-year-old whose survival now hinges on timely nutrition and medical aid.
As food, fuel, and dignity vanish in Gaza, the UN has reiterated its call for Israel, as the occupying power, to uphold its obligations under international law and ensure a safe and enabling environment for aid delivery.
